I love the minimalism of these images. We live in a world that seems to shout at us constantly; images like these offer serenity and tranquility. Good work :-)
I believe it is imperative to go beyond ones comfort zone if you want to create meaningful art (or to be effective in any field, in general). I have been a film photographer for 40 years and I have been teaching film photography for 15 years now. I spend 8 hours a day in a darkroom, and if I didn't push my own personal boundaries in photography, I would have burnt out a long time ago. I am a long time large format, zone system photographer so that always keeps things fresh. I have also always loved pinhole photography, so when things get tiresome, I make a camera out of something I have never used before and go shooting. I use film, paper, litho, xray and whatever I can get my hands on to change things up. There is plenty of failure, but the process of figuring things out keeps the love alive. My daily shooters at this moment are my 3.25 x 4.25 Graflex (hand held) and a coffee can with paper negatives, and I am having a ball. I cycle through a tremendous amount of equipment to keep the technical aspect interesting.
I have no interest or desire to shoot film, but man, these videos lately in which you’ve shot on film have been super inspirational. Why? Because of the PASSION. You just look so inspired and that inspiration is contagious. That’s why I began watching this channel years ago. Thanks for staying true to who you are and what you want to shoot and how, because that is what motivates and inspires me to wake up at 3am (tomorrow) to go chasing sunrise
I have had so many different digital cameras over the years. Never have I ever been more happy about shooting images than I am now, and now I only shoot film. To me its more than just the images, I love how an old camera makes me rethink the way I shoot, and as an added bonus I get better images. Keep doing what you love, the second you start to do what you think the audience wants thats when it will all fall apart, and people lose interest. Be youself and It will all be good for many years to come 👌🏼
I agree. I’m getting back into film after a 25 yr hiatus. Not sure if I’ll ditch digital all together but right now I’ve noticed that my digital work has also improved by simply being forced to slow down with medium format film. I’m shooting less images and being more deliberate all the way around and the results are the proof in the pudding. Fun stuff!
Personally I think the third image is the best. I understand why you think otherwise. With the light only on the left but with the pano crop and that water line in the foreground leading your eye 👁 to the massive negative space on the right side make it a perfect image. Anyone else think this? Awesome photos TOM 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
half a million subscribers, generally beloved by random photographers for his transparency, lack of ego, and all around nicechappiness, yet somehow camera shy when other folks are stood about. i love this more than i should. made my day, honestly. i doubt i'd ever get to the point where i look anywhere near as relaxed as you do in your blogs. also, your mention of the tactile feel and experience of using film cameras is spot on. it is something that is difficult to describe and definitely something everyone should try out. a few days ago in the photography pubcast, there was a fair bit of discussion as to why anyone would shoot film in the age of digital and i'm not sure anyone managed to adequately convey the "why." i tried in a comment, but found it surprisingly difficult. i'm sure there's a good analogy out there but i haven't managed to find it. i've started shooting film again only recently and it has rekindled a passion for shooting that had waned quite a bit during my digital years.
Very happy to see more photographers using film, definitely a great way to shoot if you're burnt out! The GX617 is a beast! Also if you want to shoot film panoramas, but can't swing the dough for the cost of one, there are hacks which you can load a roll of 35mm film into a medium format camera
Antarctica - I've been lucky to have been on expedition ships down there twice. My photo related advice is to have policies in place about position on zodiacs. I found people can get aggressive about prime spots (front/back corners), which affects how quickly you can get people off the ship (an issue when people are melting inside wearing all their cold gear waiting to get on the zodiac). Also enforce policies against standing up in the zodiac (or worse, forcing themselves between people on the other side of the zodiac). Folks pay a lot to be there and seem to feel entitled to get every possible shot, so aggressive photographers push the boundaries as much as they can. People also have drastically different perceptions of value on their gear. I've watched some, presumably well off, allow full bodies and L lenses to be submerged in salt water. When they sit next to people who covet their hard earned L lens, it can lead to conflict when one isn't as careful around the other. Finally, outside photography, try and get to South Georgia one day. It's amazing. Cheers.
That's funny.Aggressive photographers.I guess it would be best to have some type of meeting about how to manage spots,because I would laugh in someone's face,trying to tell me what to do with my camera.There would be no conflict because the fact is,$700 body or $7000 rig,they both have the same creative rights.If it's a question of money spent,then those spots can be marked and reserved...
Don’t know why you have so much doubt, you’re a great photographer and videographer. You’re images project a sense of calm and serenity. The same for your videos. You’re an honest, passionate person and that comes across in spades. Great creator that TH-cam should be very proud of.
Good to see that you are doing more of the serious landscape photography. Keep the good stuff rolling. Also, it's encouraging to see a popular guy like you doing a little soul searching. Good job.
Thomas don't ever regret it. You have the right frame of mind and the great skill to capture the beauty of the landscape. Without the light metering it would have been far more harder to capture the scenery. It beautifully captured the film really did it's justistice. Cheers and keep calm and keep clicking.
You taught us what is professional for landscape photography when you have demanded yourself so high. All the three images you have shown are absolutely gorgeous. Congratulations! Hope your next photography project with this camera would be another successful one.
The videos clips you say are not good are actually really evocative and really put across the nervous doubtful experience, chasing light, worrying about wind etc, i like it. Juggling making a video and thoughtful landscape pictures isn’t easy. Enjoying your recent videos, keep it up.
I started shooting film again after 10 years of digital this spring, it’s the best thing I could have done for my photography. It’s isnt the “look” or nice cameras but the pace, doubt, relief and disappointment that make me push myself harder, think more and take the process seriously. I value digital and what it can do but the experience working with film again has given me has reminded how we should work, on the edge, nervous and questioning every decision, your videos put that across really well. Sometimes I get frustrated with the materialistic nature of photo content on TH-cam. the anxiety and pressure you put in yourself is good to see, open and honest and it shows how real, honest photography isn’t about money but mistakes, hard work and patience, I hope young image makers appreciate that in your content.
I’m glad you still created a video out of the footage you had. I love that you don’t talk to the camera in front of people ☺️ I also returned to the same location two days in a row this week to get the perfect light. It was well worth it. Antarctica sounds amazing!!
Don't worry about anything Thomas... The second shot is certainly beautiful... Things can't be perfect at all times and we all mess things up but that's just part of photography... Keep your head up Thomas, you do a great job Mate..
6:55 - What's not to like? I love the texture and swirly patterns in the water/eddy of the moving estuary current; it almost reminds me of the multi-color patterns you see in soap bubbles or a bit of oil in a puddle. Add to that the perfect, subtle ombré across the frame from pink to blue-violet paired with the leading line of the current and sandbar (not to mention that blip of the castle perfectly centered in the distance). I think it's a very strong image overall, helped a lot by the abundance of minute and intriguing little textures in the water. That you chose a film stock like Provia that lends itself so well to the color palette is all the better.
It's extremely honest and humble of you Thamas to be telling us about exactly how you are feeling at the point of your photo shoot.. Great to hear honest/ and straight to the point information that will definitely help old blokes like me to take better photos.. I'm with you every way and every day... I bid you a very safe, enjoyable and extremely interesting journey on board or on land.. We will be very interested in hearing about your journey.. I think about once a Month I get the urge to upgrade my Sony A/7/3 but I get my head onto my shoulders and just shuffle on my way with the gear that I have... It's not the gear, It's the bloke with the gear that is the problem... Stay safe Mate and enjoy yourself.... 3
Thats somehow sweet, how this guy, whos Videos are so often be watched, who comfortly talkes to an audience of thousands and thousands of people twice a week, even about his personal honest feelings, completly "freezes" when someone is watching him talking alone. :) Even a bigger Thank you for inspireing and entertaining us again and again.
Once i saw the first image i literally waved at the screen and yelled OH COME OOOOOON!! What a fantastic image! After your initial doubt i wasn't expecting much as you said in the video! GREAT WORK!
I didn’’t miss snappy patter and endless chatter by another blogger unnaturally entertained by the sound his own golden voice. Watching a serious artist work with a fascinating camera was fine by me. You looked busy enough creating with your camera. I’d watch you do this again with no more complaint than you are getting from me now. Hauntingly beautiful.
The way you keep on putting yourself to new challenges is truly inspiring and needeless to say I absolutely love your minimalist approach to landscape imagary.
Good Afternoon Sir :) I completley understand how you feel when people suddenly appear. I often loose my inspiration, or that magical moment. It's as if the moment has been taken away, and becomes just photography. I struggle with Pugalistica Dementia. Those constant doubts sometimes completley destroys my luster for photography. Your content has constantly inspired me to keep going, and hold onto what truly makes me feel joy inside. Thank You Very Much Sir ! Love From Iowa :)
Really enjoyed the first image in particular. The fact you returned a second time, is such a great insight into your behind the scenes commitment to excellence and delivery.
Gorgeous work once more ! That is a totally different video from the previous one (which I love really for its pure honesty), and I can't wait to see how that GX617 beast is going to perform with you behind it !
I failed at wedding and event photography because like you I can't function when there are other people around. I guess that is why I enjoy wildlife and nature photography so much. I love your work. I really liked the you liked. The one with the swirling waters and evenly balanced.
Hi Thomas, I came to the GX617 from 5x4 so for me it was by far the simpler camera to use :-) I use velvia exclusively for landscape work as I love the colour it gives. You might find it useful to get the ground glass back for the camera. I find it useful for positioning graduated neutral density filters correctly to even out the sky and foreground exposure differences. I usually compose, focus and even out exposures (with filters) on the ground glass back. I then load my film and usually focus stack the shot with the four available exposures. The cost of getting to the location far outweighs the cost of film so use all of it to get the shot you want. The more you use it the more you will relax and learn to love it. Best Regards Sarah
I have shot Pentax 67 for years. You are right! It's about the experience! My love for film (I have full frame digital also) goes back 50 years... Yes, I'm old!, but, I love both mediums! Great vid!!
Tom you have shown that you can produce great results with that particular camera. I agree with your statement about photography. It is one I have shared with others as well. I have always loved the craft of photography. Keep up the good work!
Honestly Thomas, I love the 3rd "out of balance" image. To me, that image tells more of a story precisely because it is out of balance and in the end is a more unique photograph.
Hi Thomas, I just stumbled over your 2-year-old Video, still I have sort of the same camera, a Gilde 66-17 MST super 3d, short a 6x6 to 6x17 camera. And as you said I bought the camera years ago with my heart. I went 3 weeks to japan with it as a "point and shoot"-camera hanging over my shoulder. it was an experience I would recommend everyone to make. the pictures are extraordinary. I really love shooting with such a camera, as it slows you down as a photographer to look again at what you shoot. Your video just points out what these cameras have over the digital ones.
Hey Tom, I was a huge fan of the Fuji 617 and used one on a number of commercial shoots in the 90's. Even for a seasoned photographer brought up on 5x4 & 10x8 Film cameras, shooting with the 617 was always a challenge especially when shooting outdoors on location. I would have loved to own one back then and still look back on using it with fond memories. It is good to be challenged now and again and to step outside our comfort zone, in this digital age where we can check results on screen instantly it makes us slow down and think about what we are shooting, especially when you get 4 frames to a roll ! keep on pushing yourself my friend and keep on loading that 120 film !! By the way, image 3 is my fav, love the intensity of colour, Symmetry isn't always best !
Some of my favorite videos have no narration. When it is about the experience, no explanation in necessary. I sense that photography for you is mostly about the experience anyway. It is why you are drawn to cameras like this. Loved the “B” roll. I also love the second image. It’s about the light.
I love that coastline, was at the head of that bay recently, crawling through long grass and mud trying to get a shots of curlews and godwits. Very evocative images for me!
Love that last image. Amazing subject too. Your photography just showcases the inherent mystery and beauty in Lindisfarne. I hope I can see it with my own eyes one day. Greetings from North Carolina.
My Hasselblad Xpan 2 and FUJI GX 617 were my go to camera everywhere I travel. Though result were not great as digital, I felt honest and pure in my photography. I mostly use on Velvia 50.
I love the 2nd image. It may be left heavy but with the central subject of the castle your eye wanders from left to right whilst glancing to the left at the castle and the light. Beautiful. Emotionally calm and calling...like as though you can see you're almost home from a long journey. If the castle was home. :) Beautiful images all around.
What's up Thomas? I love the fact that you'er using a film camera. One thing I must say is that it's the shots that you take that really make the video work. Your shots are always good, to me. I do, myself own two film cameras. One is a Minolta SRT 202, which is a really great camera, and a Nikon 6006, which is a fully electronic film camera. The camera of lately is a Nikon D3300 DSLR, and boy, what a learning curve. I've had it about three year or so, and I'm getting there. Use that camera more often, it will only make you better; and your videos are just fine. Take it easy my friend. Peace!!!!
I appreciate Thomas's thoughts regarding the process and the self doubts he has when taking his images (and him freezing up when others come close). So relatable. I relish in the atmosphere more when on my own. I think both 1st and 2nd photos are great, I prefer the extra detail in the first though the tranquility in the second image is beautiful and would look great on the right wall.
I have love the images from the Fiji GX617 since Ken Duncan released a calander in Australia. The Fiji premivira film has enhanced colours an in slide film it is beautiful for sunsets. Great videos Thomas love the evaluation of your photography. As a photographer that started with BW film and evolved into digital it is great to see professionals like yourself test the field of photography and develop the appreciation for other medium’s in your photography. Keep up the great work. Do not ever doubt your judgement of your self by other people as you may under estimate their appreciation of your skills.
Ahh, Lindisfarne, the name brings good memories of fun times. Every video you do is teaching me to love photography. Please feel good about it, even when it feels bad.
You seem so comfortable on camera, so I was surprised the first time I heard you say you lock up when people are around. As someone who is always uncomfortable on camera, it is a comfort to know you still have issues! I apologize that I take comfort in your discomfort! And your images are brilliant as always!
I always love your videos. I enjoy how you document the goods with the bads. It is so refreshing and inspiring to know that photography is always a learning process and there is always room to grow. Keep doing what you are doing, man.
Love the two first photos. As far as the third goes, of course you can crop it. Just place the castle 1/3 from the right, if you understand, what I mean. I have cameras, I didn't do well with at first. But, I kept shooting and trying to understand the camera until I got it. Maybe focus less on the videos for a while - just get to know the camera as well, as you know your Mark 5, then the videos will be much easier to shoot too - as long as no one else is around (I'm right there with you on that).
My first time using this camera I has 300 people starring at me, I double exposed the group picture on the first two frames because I didn't advance the film far enough. Lucky me the last frame turned out great. No pressure...... Learning on the job is always the best. Thanks for sharing love the images and the colors.
Amazing video as always. I’ve been wanting to dabble in film photography for awhile now. Never got the guts to actually purchase any cheap old film camera though. Also I didn’t realize how much I’ve missing that outro song.
I absolutely love the simplistic approach to photography and Tom demonstrates that the best. I don’t think the image with the tide going out would look too bad cropped with the castle on the right the breaking water is a leading line straight to the castle. Another great video
Oh gosh that has really tugged my heart strings. I was brought up in Wooler in the 1950s where my father was a professional photographer and my family lived next to Lindisfarne with my Mother born in Lowick. This scene is part of my DNA and nothing does it better justice than a Panorama. Most of my shots now are Panoramic. I have bought a Fuji GW690iii to produce panoramic prints with a bit of a crop in my retirement (havent found the time yet but, this video might give me a kick). I also just pick up my digital Sony A7ii for my panoramic street shots to avoid the fuss. The 6x9 negative is big enough to contact print & I cant see me buying an enlarger. Good luck with the future shoots ;-)
Remember when that camera came out and wanted it so bad. I just didn't have the money at the time and ended up purchasing a Pentax 6/45 instead. Really nice photos you took, I enjoyed all of them. Great work, thanks for sharing
You don't always need to speak. I enjoy watching with a background of sounds from the location mixed with mood music. We are photographers after all . . . we thrive on the visual. Simply watching you work often leaves a stronger impact than spoken words.
I’ve have to go out with my Fuji G617 and use it again. I have some film in the fridge and it has been waiting for a long time. Thanks for reminding me the pleasure there is when you use film.
I haven't watched your channel for a little while, sorry. I have a 6x17 back for my Toyo field. The whole set-up is even more cumbersome than your fuji so I don't use it as often as I might. You've inspired me to have another go this week.
Had you tried cropping both left and right to keep the castle central. Chop the brightest spot from the left and the darkest area from the right. Might leave you with something more balanced with less difference in the extremes. Great vid
I guess for me, in order of "favorites" I'ld probably go with your first image from day two, then the low tied blue shot form day one as a second place. The last one didn't quite do it for me. And as far as filming with other people around, I TOTALLY can relate! Thank you again for the great content!
You know what you are doing is successful when you've inspired someone, who may not even get a chance to meet you. Thanks Tom. Your videos make many people want to follow your footsteps. Including me, of course 🙂💯
Usually I'm just lurking here, but these videos about film photography are really fantastic! Just recently I found an old 35mm film camera at home and shot some rolls. What a different experience that is to my DSLR. :)
Loved all the images of course, but the 2nd one, the extremely minimalist one, I absolutely loved. While it may lack the foreground interest, it's subtle colors reflected by the clouds and sky were awesome. And I'm just a sucker for pink light. As far as that article, it sounded like an explanation of you to a T! When you have a new piece of kit or are shooting in great conditions, your enthusiasm is endearing and inspiring. Thanks for sharing this with us Tom!
Well... your suggestions and your story of shifting to film has been more then just interesting... inspirational and I bought me a Intrepid 8x10 and a Pentax 67 ! On a steep learning curve at the moment! )))
well, i love all of them! the one with shifted light, you’ve captured nature how it’s appeared. if you haven’t mentioned it i see wonder of nature. as for the camera, you learn the tool as you’re experienced it. like all tools once you’ve familiar its strengths & purposes, there’s no stopping. i’m so wanted one, the only issue i may find is trying to get the films from where i am.
It is nice when you talk, but don't worry about having to. That clip you had with just silence was beautiful. Very tasteful. Quiet with the music and beautiful light. A splendid intermezzo to the rest of your video :)
I've really enjoyed this format of video. bit out in the field and a bit in studio. Photography to me is what i get out of the day. Bad photos and a wonderful experience anytime. If it's the other way around, well , they're just photos.
I’m a complete beginner to photography and because of that I don’t look at images on a technical basis, they just need to be visually appealing but I can see why you are critical of each one. The first would have been absolutely stunning with the light of the others, similarly the other two would have been even better with the water detail in the foreground of the first, I get all of that, I really do but I often think you professionals are too critical of your incredible shots. I haven’t the camera to get stunning panoramic shots but if I had taken any one of those images I probably wouldn’t be able to sleep for a week 😀 to my eye all three are superb and if I had to pick one to hang on the wall it would be the last, despite you describing it as “unbalanced” Loving your videos Thomas, learning tons 👍
Thomas: I am not a great photographer, but I really like the last two photos in this video. I like the easiness of the scene and, of course, the colors. I particularly like the last photo. The colors are vibrant and the scene is beautiful. Thank you.
Great video, love the images that Fugifim takes! I remember the old Kodak camera's you used to take photo's and get real exited on how your images would turn out. You kinda miss those moments with digital camera's now days. I love landscape photography it's just something about it you can find a boring spot but you can make it look very interesting from it. Keep up the good work!
I wish I had a lotto ticket right now that I could cash in for this trip, as it sounds absolutely brilliant! Sending all my best wishes that it comes through for all of you . Kudos for setting something like this up in the first place:) Cheers
A beast of a camera. I am looking forward to seeing something in portrait mode. For what it's worth I enjoyed the third image which read nicely left to right into the stillness of the coming night. I feel compelled to sing the praises of the little brother to this camera. The Fuji GSW690III takes a 6X9cm 28mm equivalent image but is big enough to be cropped square (6x6) or halved (6x4.5). It was much lighter than taking my Mamiya 645 and 3 lenses to do the same job.
For the money, it can't be beat. I've used one for 20 years, and have enjoyed every minute. It has some limitations, but the images one can get out of it are amazing. You made a good choice. Now to a scanner!
I love the minimalism of these images. We live in a world that seems to shout at us constantly; images like these offer serenity and tranquility. Good work :-)
Probably the only photographer who is coming out of his comfort zone. Happy to be one of your loyal followers Tom
I believe it is imperative to go beyond ones comfort zone if you want to create meaningful art (or to be effective in any field, in general). I have been a film photographer for 40 years and I have been teaching film photography for 15 years now. I spend 8 hours a day in a darkroom, and if I didn't push my own personal boundaries in photography, I would have burnt out a long time ago. I am a long time large format, zone system photographer so that always keeps things fresh. I have also always loved pinhole photography, so when things get tiresome, I make a camera out of something I have never used before and go shooting. I use film, paper, litho, xray and whatever I can get my hands on to change things up. There is plenty of failure, but the process of figuring things out keeps the love alive. My daily shooters at this moment are my 3.25 x 4.25 Graflex (hand held) and a coffee can with paper negatives, and I am having a ball. I cycle through a tremendous amount of equipment to keep the technical aspect interesting.
I have no interest or desire to shoot film, but man, these videos lately in which you’ve shot on film have been super inspirational. Why? Because of the PASSION. You just look so inspired and that inspiration is contagious. That’s why I began watching this channel years ago. Thanks for staying true to who you are and what you want to shoot and how, because that is what motivates and inspires me to wake up at 3am (tomorrow) to go chasing sunrise
I have had so many different digital cameras over the years. Never have I ever been more happy about shooting images than I am now, and now I only shoot film. To me its more than just the images, I love how an old camera makes me rethink the way I shoot, and as an added bonus I get better images. Keep doing what you love, the second you start to do what you think the audience wants thats when it will all fall apart, and people lose interest. Be youself and It will all be good for many years to come 👌🏼
@John ok Agreed 👌🏼
I agree. I’m getting back into film after a 25 yr hiatus. Not sure if I’ll ditch digital all together but right now I’ve noticed that my digital work has also improved by simply being forced to slow down with medium format film. I’m shooting less images and being more deliberate all the way around and the results are the proof in the pudding. Fun stuff!
Personally I think the third image is the best. I understand why you think otherwise. With the light only on the left but with the pano crop and that water line in the foreground leading your eye 👁 to the massive negative space on the right side make it a perfect image. Anyone else think this? Awesome photos TOM 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
half a million subscribers, generally beloved by random photographers for his transparency, lack of ego, and all around nicechappiness, yet somehow camera shy when other folks are stood about. i love this more than i should. made my day, honestly. i doubt i'd ever get to the point where i look anywhere near as relaxed as you do in your blogs.
also, your mention of the tactile feel and experience of using film cameras is spot on. it is something that is difficult to describe and definitely something everyone should try out. a few days ago in the photography pubcast, there was a fair bit of discussion as to why anyone would shoot film in the age of digital and i'm not sure anyone managed to adequately convey the "why." i tried in a comment, but found it surprisingly difficult. i'm sure there's a good analogy out there but i haven't managed to find it. i've started shooting film again only recently and it has rekindled a passion for shooting that had waned quite a bit during my digital years.
Thomas is a very rare person. Generous, dedicated, humble, down to earth and thoughtful. He also takes a pretty good image . 👍🍀
Very happy to see more photographers using film, definitely a great way to shoot if you're burnt out! The GX617 is a beast! Also if you want to shoot film panoramas, but can't swing the dough for the cost of one, there are hacks which you can load a roll of 35mm film into a medium format camera
I love watching you take this journey. I did film for ages and could never go back. But I love watching you discover a new passion in your work.
Antarctica - I've been lucky to have been on expedition ships down there twice. My photo related advice is to have policies in place about position on zodiacs. I found people can get aggressive about prime spots (front/back corners), which affects how quickly you can get people off the ship (an issue when people are melting inside wearing all their cold gear waiting to get on the zodiac). Also enforce policies against standing up in the zodiac (or worse, forcing themselves between people on the other side of the zodiac). Folks pay a lot to be there and seem to feel entitled to get every possible shot, so aggressive photographers push the boundaries as much as they can. People also have drastically different perceptions of value on their gear. I've watched some, presumably well off, allow full bodies and L lenses to be submerged in salt water. When they sit next to people who covet their hard earned L lens, it can lead to conflict when one isn't as careful around the other. Finally, outside photography, try and get to South Georgia one day. It's amazing. Cheers.
@@RiceCake-ep9gu wrong. No amount of money entitles anyone to be a dick.
That's funny.Aggressive photographers.I guess it would be best to have some type of meeting about how to manage spots,because I would laugh in someone's face,trying to tell me what to do with my camera.There would be no conflict because the fact is,$700 body or $7000 rig,they both have the same creative rights.If it's a question of money spent,then those spots can be marked and reserved...
Just a man and his craft, no talking, just a good visual, ace.
Don’t know why you have so much doubt, you’re a great photographer and videographer. You’re images project a sense of calm and serenity.
The same for your videos. You’re an honest, passionate person and that comes across in spades.
Great creator that TH-cam should be very proud of.
Good to see that you are doing more of the serious landscape photography. Keep the good stuff rolling.
Also, it's encouraging to see a popular guy like you doing a little soul searching. Good job.
Thomas don't ever regret it.
You have the right frame of mind and the great skill to capture the beauty of the landscape.
Without the light metering it would have been far more harder to capture the scenery.
It beautifully captured the film really did it's justistice.
Cheers and keep calm and keep clicking.
I am so glad I am not the only one who gets flustered when other people are around when filming. Loved the shots.
You taught us what is professional for landscape photography when you have demanded yourself so high. All the three images you have shown are absolutely gorgeous. Congratulations! Hope your next photography project with this camera would be another successful one.
The videos clips you say are not good are actually really evocative and really put across the nervous doubtful experience, chasing light, worrying about wind etc, i like it. Juggling making a video and thoughtful landscape pictures isn’t easy. Enjoying your recent videos, keep it up.
I started shooting film again after 10 years of digital this spring, it’s the best thing I could have done for my photography. It’s isnt the “look” or nice cameras but the pace, doubt, relief and disappointment that make me push myself harder, think more and take the process seriously. I value digital and what it can do but the experience working with film again has given me has reminded how we should work, on the edge, nervous and questioning every decision, your videos put that across really well. Sometimes I get frustrated with the materialistic nature of photo content on TH-cam. the anxiety and pressure you put in yourself is good to see, open and honest and it shows how real, honest photography isn’t about money but mistakes, hard work and patience, I hope young image makers appreciate that in your content.
I purchased one of these and used it a lot, Although that was before digital. :) I found it took a lot of careful work using filters.
Boring experience, digital.
How did you use filters, I have purchased a few Haida 75mm square ND filters to slip into the lens hoods.
I’m glad you still created a video out of the footage you had. I love that you don’t talk to the camera in front of people ☺️
I also returned to the same location two days in a row this week to get the perfect light. It was well worth it. Antarctica sounds amazing!!
Don't worry about anything Thomas... The second shot is certainly beautiful... Things can't be perfect at all times and we all mess things up but that's just part of photography... Keep your head up Thomas, you do a great job Mate..
I really love that you’re giving film a go. It’s so rewarding, for me anyway
6:55 - What's not to like? I love the texture and swirly patterns in the water/eddy of the moving estuary current; it almost reminds me of the multi-color patterns you see in soap bubbles or a bit of oil in a puddle. Add to that the perfect, subtle ombré across the frame from pink to blue-violet paired with the leading line of the current and sandbar (not to mention that blip of the castle perfectly centered in the distance). I think it's a very strong image overall, helped a lot by the abundance of minute and intriguing little textures in the water. That you chose a film stock like Provia that lends itself so well to the color palette is all the better.
It's extremely honest and humble of you Thamas to be telling us about exactly how you are feeling at the point of your photo shoot.. Great to hear honest/ and straight to the point information that will definitely help old blokes like me to take better photos.. I'm with you every way and every day... I bid you a very safe, enjoyable and extremely interesting journey on board or on land.. We will be very interested in hearing about your journey.. I think about once a Month I get the urge to upgrade my Sony A/7/3 but I get my head onto my shoulders and just shuffle on my way with the gear that I have... It's not the gear, It's the bloke with the gear that is the problem... Stay safe Mate and enjoy yourself....
3
Thats somehow sweet, how this guy, whos Videos are so often be watched, who comfortly talkes to an audience of thousands and thousands of people twice a week, even about his personal honest feelings, completly "freezes" when someone is watching him talking alone. :)
Even a bigger Thank you for inspireing and entertaining us again and again.
Loving the images from GX617! Simply breath-taking stuff!
Thanks for sharing your experience using it!
"Photography Is Always About The Experience" -Thomas Heaton, 2020
Once i saw the first image i literally waved at the screen and yelled OH COME OOOOOON!! What a fantastic image! After your initial doubt i wasn't expecting much as you said in the video! GREAT WORK!
Great video. Loved your first image on the second day. Great to see you push your own boundaries.
I didn’’t miss snappy patter and endless chatter by another blogger unnaturally entertained by the sound his own golden voice. Watching a serious artist work with a fascinating camera was fine by me. You looked busy enough creating with your camera. I’d watch you do this again with no more complaint than you are getting from me now. Hauntingly beautiful.
For some weird reason (even though I do photography for around 3 years now) this video reminded me why photography is art. Thanks, great video!
The way you keep on putting yourself to new challenges is truly inspiring and needeless to say I absolutely love your minimalist approach to landscape imagary.
Good Afternoon Sir :)
I completley understand how you feel when people suddenly appear. I often loose my inspiration, or that magical moment. It's as if the moment has been taken away, and becomes just photography.
I struggle with Pugalistica Dementia. Those constant doubts sometimes completley destroys my luster for photography.
Your content has constantly inspired me to keep going, and hold onto what truly makes me feel joy inside.
Thank You Very Much Sir !
Love From Iowa :)
Beautiful shots , I suffer from anxiety your not alone . Love your blogs your honest is nice to hear .
Really enjoyed the first image in particular. The fact you returned a second time, is such a great insight into your behind the scenes commitment to excellence and delivery.
Oooh..... I see a 2022 pano calendar coming! I’ll be the first to order!
Not a bad idea.
Gorgeous work once more ! That is a totally different video from the previous one (which I love really for its pure honesty), and I can't wait to see how that GX617 beast is going to perform with you behind it !
I like pano shots as well. The places that you go to are so beautiful. Those vivid colors of the mountains, etc...Thanks, Thomas!
I failed at wedding and event photography because like you I can't function when there are other people around. I guess that is why I enjoy wildlife and nature photography so much. I love your work. I really liked the you liked. The one with the swirling waters and evenly balanced.
Hi Thomas, I came to the GX617 from 5x4 so for me it was by far the simpler camera to use :-) I use velvia exclusively for landscape work as I love the colour it gives. You might find it useful to get the ground glass back for the camera. I find it useful for positioning graduated neutral density filters correctly to even out the sky and foreground exposure differences. I usually compose, focus and even out exposures (with filters) on the ground glass back. I then load my film and usually focus stack the shot with the four available exposures. The cost of getting to the location far outweighs the cost of film so use all of it to get the shot you want. The more you use it the more you will relax and learn to love it. Best Regards Sarah
I have shot Pentax 67 for years. You are right! It's about the experience! My love for film (I have full frame digital also) goes back
50 years... Yes, I'm old!, but, I love both mediums! Great vid!!
Tom you have shown that you can produce great results with that particular camera. I agree with your statement about photography. It is one I have shared with others as well. I have always loved the craft of photography. Keep up the good work!
Honestly Thomas, I love the 3rd "out of balance" image. To me, that image tells more of a story precisely because it is out of balance and in the end is a more unique photograph.
Hi Thomas, I just stumbled over your 2-year-old Video, still I have sort of the same camera, a Gilde 66-17 MST super 3d, short a 6x6 to 6x17 camera. And as you said I bought the camera years ago with my heart. I went 3 weeks to japan with it as a "point and shoot"-camera hanging over my shoulder. it was an experience I would recommend everyone to make. the pictures are extraordinary. I really love shooting with such a camera, as it slows you down as a photographer to look again at what you shoot.
Your video just points out what these cameras have over the digital ones.
Sometimes nothing needs to be said, only appreciated. I think this video is one of those cases.
Hey Tom, I was a huge fan of the Fuji 617 and used one on a number of commercial shoots in the 90's. Even for a seasoned photographer brought up on 5x4 & 10x8 Film cameras, shooting with the 617 was always a challenge especially when shooting outdoors on location. I would have loved to own one back then and still look back on using it with fond memories. It is good to be challenged now and again and to step outside our comfort zone, in this digital age where we can check results on screen instantly it makes us slow down and think about what we are shooting, especially when you get 4 frames to a roll ! keep on pushing yourself my friend and keep on loading that 120 film !! By the way, image 3 is my fav, love the intensity of colour, Symmetry isn't always best !
Some of my favorite videos have no narration. When it is about the experience, no explanation in necessary. I sense that photography for you is mostly about the experience anyway. It is why you are drawn to cameras like this. Loved the “B” roll. I also love the second image. It’s about the light.
I love that coastline, was at the head of that bay recently, crawling through long grass and mud trying to get a shots of curlews and godwits. Very evocative images for me!
Love that last image. Amazing subject too. Your photography just showcases the inherent mystery and beauty in Lindisfarne. I hope I can see it with my own eyes one day. Greetings from North Carolina.
love all of three your works. tx for sharing the photos as well as the experience.
My Hasselblad Xpan 2 and FUJI GX 617 were my go to camera everywhere I travel. Though result were not great as digital, I felt honest and pure in my photography. I mostly use on Velvia 50.
I love the 2nd image. It may be left heavy but with the central subject of the castle your eye wanders from left to right whilst glancing to the left at the castle and the light. Beautiful. Emotionally calm and calling...like as though you can see you're almost home from a long journey. If the castle was home. :) Beautiful images all around.
Serenity photos Thomas. I really like the results. Love the camera! Thanks for sharing. All the best Graham.
What's up Thomas? I love the fact that you'er using a film camera. One thing I must say is that it's the shots that you take that really make the video work. Your shots are always good, to me. I do, myself own two film cameras. One is a Minolta SRT 202, which is a really great camera, and a Nikon 6006, which is a fully electronic film camera. The camera of lately is a Nikon D3300 DSLR, and boy, what a learning curve. I've had it about three year or so, and I'm getting there. Use that camera more often, it will only make you better; and your videos are just fine. Take it easy my friend. Peace!!!!
I appreciate Thomas's thoughts regarding the process and the self doubts he has when taking his images (and him freezing up when others come close). So relatable. I relish in the atmosphere more when on my own.
I think both 1st and 2nd photos are great, I prefer the extra detail in the first though the tranquility in the second image is beautiful and would look great on the right wall.
Che spettacolo!! Adoro le tue foto !!! Complimenti 🤙🏻
I have love the images from the Fiji GX617 since Ken Duncan released a calander in Australia. The Fiji premivira film has enhanced colours an in slide film it is beautiful for sunsets. Great videos Thomas love the evaluation of your photography. As a photographer that started with BW film and evolved into digital it is great to see professionals like yourself test the field of photography and develop the appreciation for other medium’s in your photography. Keep up the great work. Do not ever doubt your judgement of your self by other people as you may under estimate their appreciation of your skills.
Ahh, Lindisfarne, the name brings good memories of fun times.
Every video you do is teaching me to love photography. Please feel good about it, even when it feels bad.
You seem so comfortable on camera, so I was surprised the first time I heard you say you lock up when people are around. As someone who is always uncomfortable on camera, it is a comfort to know you still have issues! I apologize that I take comfort in your discomfort! And your images are brilliant as always!
Thanks for the video - perfect Sunday evening viewing. I love the abstract calmness of those photographs.
I always love your videos. I enjoy how you document the goods with the bads. It is so refreshing and inspiring to know that photography is always a learning process and there is always room to grow. Keep doing what you are doing, man.
Love the two first photos.
As far as the third goes, of course you can crop it. Just place the castle 1/3 from the right, if you understand, what I mean.
I have cameras, I didn't do well with at first. But, I kept shooting and trying to understand the camera until I got it.
Maybe focus less on the videos for a while - just get to know the camera as well, as you know your Mark 5, then the videos will be much easier to shoot too - as long as no one else is around (I'm right there with you on that).
Great video Thomas! I liked the image that you thought wasn’t balanced, with the lighter left side. Really liked the contrast of light and dark.
Friend, there are times in life when stillness is just what a person needs. The minimalist image you're uncertain of is for me the most wonderful.
My first time using this camera I has 300 people starring at me, I double exposed the group picture on the first two frames because I didn't advance the film far enough. Lucky me the last frame turned out great. No pressure...... Learning on the job is always the best. Thanks for sharing love the images and the colors.
Amazing video as always. I’ve been wanting to dabble in film photography for awhile now. Never got the guts to actually purchase any cheap old film camera though. Also I didn’t realize how much I’ve missing that outro song.
I absolutely love the simplistic approach to photography and Tom demonstrates that the best. I don’t think the image with the tide going out would look too bad cropped with the castle on the right the breaking water is a leading line straight to the castle. Another great video
Oh gosh that has really tugged my heart strings. I was brought up in Wooler in the 1950s where my father was a professional photographer and my family lived next to Lindisfarne with my Mother born in Lowick. This scene is part of my DNA and nothing does it better justice than a Panorama. Most of my shots now are Panoramic. I have bought a Fuji GW690iii to produce panoramic prints with a bit of a crop in my retirement (havent found the time yet but, this video might give me a kick). I also just pick up my digital Sony A7ii for my panoramic street shots to avoid the fuss. The 6x9 negative is big enough to contact print & I cant see me buying an enlarger. Good luck with the future shoots ;-)
Remember when that camera came out and wanted it so bad. I just didn't have the money at the time and ended up purchasing a Pentax 6/45 instead. Really nice photos you took, I enjoyed all of them. Great work, thanks for sharing
I love the first image in the second video. Super clean and really talks to me.
Thomas, I really enjoyed your first images with the Fuji 617. I appreciate the minimalist approach and also like abstracts. Keep up the great work!
You don't always need to speak. I enjoy watching with a background of sounds from the location mixed with mood music. We are photographers after all . . . we thrive on the visual. Simply watching you work often leaves a stronger impact than spoken words.
I’ve have to go out with my Fuji G617 and use it again. I have some film in the fridge and it has been waiting for a long time. Thanks for reminding me the pleasure there is when you use film.
I haven't watched your channel for a little while, sorry. I have a 6x17 back for my Toyo field. The whole set-up is even more cumbersome than your fuji so I don't use it as often as I might. You've inspired me to have another go this week.
Had you tried cropping both left and right to keep the castle central. Chop the brightest spot from the left and the darkest area from the right. Might leave you with something more balanced with less difference in the extremes. Great vid
I guess for me, in order of "favorites" I'ld probably go with your first image from day two, then the low tied blue shot form day one as a second place. The last one didn't quite do it for me.
And as far as filming with other people around, I TOTALLY can relate! Thank you again for the great content!
You know what you are doing is successful when you've inspired someone, who may not even get a chance to meet you. Thanks Tom. Your videos make many people want to follow your footsteps. Including me, of course 🙂💯
Loving your explorations with film. Amazing shots.
You're right, film photography is a blast. I shoot 35mm, 120 MF, and 4x5 LF. I can't sing the praises of the experience of film enough. It's awesome!
The first picture is stunning. The depth of colour is sublime; ethereal.
Usually I'm just lurking here, but these videos about film photography are really fantastic! Just recently I found an old 35mm film camera at home and shot some rolls. What a different experience that is to my DSLR. :)
Loved all the images of course, but the 2nd one, the extremely minimalist one, I absolutely loved. While it may lack the foreground interest, it's subtle colors reflected by the clouds and sky were awesome. And I'm just a sucker for pink light.
As far as that article, it sounded like an explanation of you to a T!
When you have a new piece of kit or are shooting in great conditions, your enthusiasm is endearing and inspiring. Thanks for sharing this with us Tom!
Beautiful work with provia Thomas!
The second day 1st photograph is stunning. Every moment is a priceless catch. Video-wise, I think it is absolutely perfect. No need to speak on scene.
Well... your suggestions and your story of shifting to film has been more then just interesting... inspirational and I bought me a Intrepid 8x10 and a Pentax 67 ! On a steep learning curve at the moment! )))
absolutely love these images; nice job Thomas👍‼️
As a minimalist composition I think both day 2 shots are really gorgeous. Well done.
well, i love all of them! the one with shifted light, you’ve captured nature how it’s appeared. if you haven’t mentioned it i see wonder of nature.
as for the camera, you learn the tool as you’re experienced it. like all tools once you’ve familiar its strengths & purposes, there’s no stopping. i’m so wanted one, the only issue i may find is trying to get the films from where i am.
It is nice when you talk, but don't worry about having to. That clip you had with just silence was beautiful. Very tasteful. Quiet with the music and beautiful light. A splendid intermezzo to the rest of your video :)
I've really enjoyed this format of video. bit out in the field and a bit in studio. Photography to me is what i get out of the day. Bad photos and a wonderful experience anytime. If it's the other way around, well , they're just photos.
I’m a complete beginner to photography and because of that I don’t look at images on a technical basis, they just need to be visually appealing but I can see why you are critical of each one. The first would have been absolutely stunning with the light of the others, similarly the other two would have been even better with the water detail in the foreground of the first, I get all of that, I really do but I often think you professionals are too critical of your incredible shots. I haven’t the camera to get stunning panoramic shots but if I had taken any one of those images I probably wouldn’t be able to sleep for a week 😀 to my eye all three are superb and if I had to pick one to hang on the wall it would be the last, despite you describing it as “unbalanced” Loving your videos Thomas, learning tons 👍
Your work with this camera is inspiring .
thank you from Dublin .
stay safe
Thomas: I am not a great photographer, but I really like the last two photos in this video. I like the easiness of the scene and, of course, the colors. I particularly like the last photo. The colors are vibrant and the scene is beautiful. Thank you.
Kudos to you for doing this and sharing your images. Nice work, keep going.
Great video, love the images that Fugifim takes! I remember the old Kodak camera's you used to take photo's and get real exited on how your images would turn out. You kinda miss those moments with digital camera's now days. I love landscape photography it's just something about it you can find a boring spot but you can make it look very interesting from it. Keep up the good work!
I wish I had a lotto ticket right now that I could cash in for this trip, as it sounds absolutely brilliant! Sending all my best wishes that it comes through for all of you . Kudos for setting something like this up in the first place:) Cheers
Mate you are truly a Rock Star keep doing great things
A beast of a camera. I am looking forward to seeing something in portrait mode. For what it's worth I enjoyed the third image which read nicely left to right into the stillness of the coming night.
I feel compelled to sing the praises of the little brother to this camera. The Fuji GSW690III takes a 6X9cm 28mm equivalent image but is big enough to be cropped square (6x6) or halved (6x4.5). It was much lighter than taking my Mamiya 645 and 3 lenses to do the same job.
For the money, it can't be beat. I've used one for 20 years, and have enjoyed every minute. It has some limitations, but the images one can get out of it are amazing. You made a good choice. Now to a scanner!
Your so modest mate.. these images we some of my favourites iv seen from you.. beautiful yet simple. Well done buddy 👏👏👏📷
Thanks Thomas! Very informative as well as entertaining 👍