What Camera Makers Don't Want You To Know...

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2024
  • The Photographic Eye is devoted to helping you develop the most important skill in photography - your Vision
    When you're ready to take your photographs to the next level, check out 'Learning To See'.
    A system trusted by 1000's of photographers to help them see the photographs that others miss
    Click here to start your journey: bit.ly/46QiCcX Break creative ruts and develop your unique photographic style with Focus and Frame!
    Gain 30 years of photography experience in 4 weeks.
    Only 7 spots left for the next cohort which starts August 12th.
    Don't wait, sign up now: www.thephotogr...

ความคิดเห็น • 276

  • @henkbogers8366
    @henkbogers8366 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    BedanktHi Alex
    MY name is Henk and i am a 67year old pensionada. I write to you th eday after Nikon presented the new Z8. I was Iooking if the Z8 was in the near future a possibility of replacing my Z 6for a Z8.This morrning i was looking at this utube tutorial. You learned me what the essentials are in fotography, I think i actually knew this already, but subconsiuosly denied it, becaurse it is easier to buy new gear then walking the long and chaliging road of enhancing your skills while setting out a course for yourself. These little tutorials and moments i am grateful for. You have sowilnow s many moments you share your doubt, roadblocks and the diffivulties of being a shy and introvert person. Just like i am!!! And charing your thouhts about what makes a great piicture.Sometimes i get a little depressed becaurse of them, realizing the lenght of the road. But you help me a and encourage me a tremendous lot! You stand out for me becaurse you are not swimming in the endless and abolute confusing sea of the talks of new camera's and lenses.. You give us examples of great fotographers as an inspiration.Please go on for a long time to come!!! Needles to say that the z6 stays my camera! Again, thanks a lot. Henk.

  • @MA-jm3fu
    @MA-jm3fu 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This channel is the essence of not photography...but pure art.

  • @iancadwallender9779
    @iancadwallender9779 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Totally agree with you.Everyone in the camera club were taking the same image with wide angles.I popped on the telephoto,zoomed in,and won the mono landscape trophy.I just look for something different.
    I have little interest in the gear.I carry what I need.
    Ive subscribed,after finding your channel today.

  • @JonathanRobinson11
    @JonathanRobinson11 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The quality of your channel is phenomenal. Your discussion on how we layer our perception of the world as we receive cues from the people around us, is akin to a philosophical discussion. Thank you.

  • @texaspardners
    @texaspardners 2 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    Since finding The Photographic Eye, it's been very obvious that Alex speaks from the heart. I appreciate that. It's why this is one of the few photo subject channels I subscribe to. The is the kind of 'out of the box thinking' that the world needs to learn.

    • @MJ-uk6lu
      @MJ-uk6lu ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm not so sure how out of the box it really is. He says to take unique shots, think about feelings, introspect and points out that photography isn't all gear. He repackages fundamentals of photography and reminds audience to ignore distractions and to not forget fundamentals. It's important that he does that, but not all that unique and hardly out of box stuff. Maybe today it is, because your average photographer is either instagramer, wedding photographer, stock photographer or gear reviewer, but really those fundamentals are as old as photography itself.

    • @texaspardners
      @texaspardners ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@MJ-uk6lu I think that's correct. So many speak today, speak to orthodoxy and how to use a camera/equipment, and not photograph. To me a picture is one thing, a photograph is another. I don't know if that makes sense to you, but there it is.

    • @MJ-uk6lu
      @MJ-uk6lu ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@texaspardners It makes sense. Seriously, 95% youtubers only speak about gear, equipment. Yet we live in era, where adequate enough equipment is plentiful and yet a lot of great photos were created without great equipment. Equipment can make it easier to capture great ideas, but if great ideas aren't in your head, then great equipment will be useless. And yet who exactly talks about those great photographic ideas? Alex tried, but youtubers would rather shill you some Squarespace and some totally "necessary" Nikon for just downpayment for house.

  • @edthesecond
    @edthesecond 2 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    As for equipment, I recall seeing a show of Tony O'Brien's work. Tony is a highly respected and committed photojournalist, educator, and humanitarian. He spoke about his work and said that when he was photographing a refugee camp, he left his expensive cameras at home and bought a pocket sized digital point and shoot. For the record, his choice of cameras did not alter the quality and power of the images. Also, somebody in the audience asked about his preferred choice of cameras and Tony replied that he did not discuss his equipment.

    • @jimmason8502
      @jimmason8502 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Cuz it's not about the equipment.

    • @franksierow5792
      @franksierow5792 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      I think saying that "he left his expensive cameras at home and bought a pocket sized digital point and shoot" is him talking about his equipment.

    • @Pelladhros
      @Pelladhros 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Point and shoots or Micro 4/3 are objectively better though for capturing raw emotion in subjects, either by camera shyness or feeling as though they should pose the bigger the camera.

    • @edthesecond
      @edthesecond 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@franksierow5792 Or perhaps he was talking about how he worked and not the name brand on the lens or body of the camera. He also said that he switched to the point and shoot so that the camera would not interfere with the human interactions and that he wanted to avoid drawing attention to himself. Anyhow, any camera is only as good as the eye/mind behind it, which might explain why we couldn't tell which photo was taken with what camera.

    • @The_CGA
      @The_CGA 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Pelladhros my experience is that more and more, people don’t see traditional cameras in their day to day lives much. A person can go a whole year or more without seeing a camera-the hawthorn effect just isn’t what it was in the film era. If anything, people feel less insecure about trad cameras than phones because they don’t associate them with videos and streaming (yet)…even filming in landscape puts people more at ease as it’s not “TikTok format.”
      YMMV, where I live people act different when phone cameras are on, many have no idea how to react to the alien object that is a camera. Their brains don’t acknowledge it beyond its novelty, it takes extra processing to realize what it is and that it creates images.

  • @hicstudios
    @hicstudios 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is the best photograph channel on TH-cam! I’ve been watching it everyday on lunch! I love it!

  • @davidpowell5437
    @davidpowell5437 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    I did just that last month - self diagnosed cabin fever so went out on an unpleasant, cold and misty morning. Didn't feel like carrying stuff so just took a 50mm f1.8. I had a fantastic time ambling around the local nature reserve while the mist burned off, foot zooming as required (but not jumping in the canal). Ended up with one shot that I was really pleased with and a couple to revisit - a good score for me. Once you've left all your alternatives in the car - it really is a different game!

    • @davehenderson9105
      @davehenderson9105 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I had a similar day yesterday morning and it was lovely. Just me and my mp240 and my 50mm f2

  • @Call_Me_Mom
    @Call_Me_Mom 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I like to take long exposures from the car. (When someone else is driving of course). I don't think anyone else would see anything in them, but I think it's fun and I am always interested in seeing how they turn out.

  • @HR-wd6cw
    @HR-wd6cw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    When it comes to buying new equipment (which I pretty much don't do anymore unless something is broken and cannot be repaired or is not feasible to repair -OR- I have legitimately outgrown the item, like my needs have changed and the piece of gear cannot serve me needs) I always remember back to various people I've talked to and met along the way (during my photography journey so far) and many of them whom I admired didn't have the latest gear, BUT they did all have a good eye for composition and photos, and I think that's the most important asset you can have in photography -- not the gear. The gear is a tool. I also now think of other uses for the money I would spend on gear, when I feel the itch to pick up some new piece of gear (lens, etc). I always ask myself "How many trips could I take instead of buying this lens or camera?" I basically ask myself what opportunities (trips, photo shoots, etc) would I be giving up to obtain a new piece of gear (because for most of us, money is limited). And usually that's enough for me to really think about purchases. Plus, I will always remember this saying someone once said: "Gear will come and go, but the memories and experiences you have/get [from that gear / photography] will stick with you forever."

  • @waltstevesphotography7128
    @waltstevesphotography7128 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you for the inspiration. I remember when I was in the coast guard, I had a inexpensive 35mm zoom film camera, and I wasted 3 rolls of film trying to capture dolphins leaping along side the ship. Or, the summer I spent trying to photograph a cardinal with my Nikon 1 with the telephoto. I have grown so much since then and now use the Nikon Z50. I have both of the stock lenses and the FTZ adaptor for my prime 35mm f1.8, my favorite lens. Not an expensive kit, but I love it. Keep it real my friend, and I continue my journey and I continue to learn and grow.

  • @spenceraweiss7817
    @spenceraweiss7817 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Alex. I have been spending most of my time on TH-cam enjoying your posts. Not just for the content but for how you present it.

  • @JasonRenoux
    @JasonRenoux 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Interesting paradox of the modern photgrapher. When all "experts" say that studying the great artists who shaped photography, is a must, I hear you tell us to go and explore, photograph what you want, have fun... But still, you bring forward great names of photographers. Could it be that the Sally Manns of today build themselves from a blank canvas, without following a said framework? I personally stopped the Insta-Like-slave-driving mania for this reason: it is pushing me to make photos that are not me but rather, what the canon of established beauty that is strong in the public's eyes. I think even TH-cam is responsible for creativity blocage so to speak. Many, if not most photography channels, especially those who follow the analogue resurgence, all have the same colour grading, same music and...same photos. Photography isn't a fad, it's real and it is through the view finder that we make ourselves happy :)

    • @anta40
      @anta40 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not sure if it's "a must"... I can see we naturally learn things by imitating the others. When I learnt classical piano many years ago, spent hours learning pieces written by Mozart, Bach, Haydn, etc. Hopefully, one day I would be able to write my own piece... except I gave up 🙈😅😂
      The same with photography. Now I'm still at the phase of imitating great photographers like Edward Weston, Paul Strand, Ansel Adams, etc. Hopefully one day I can find my "own voice" 😁

    • @denizvonmenace
      @denizvonmenace ปีที่แล้ว

      Sorry what?

  • @Goat.Herder
    @Goat.Herder 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I found myself several times thinking I needed a new camera, new lenses etc; but what I really needed was a project to get stuck into. Also starting out with film and developing my own negs has been fun and definitely made me forget that I'd like a new camera, lens, flash, whatever else when I just needed to focus on something rather than hoping a new lens will magically capture an image I never saw before.

  • @matthewwierzbowski1697
    @matthewwierzbowski1697 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I do monthly "challenges" for myself. Have old film cameras, and digital. Each month I pick either a prime lens or format....and that's it. The only thing I shoot the entire month. No matter where I go., or the situation. Learn to see the world at 35mm, 50mm,85mm. All monochrome the next month...even if the scene is colorful. Etc, etc....

    • @chrisloomis1489
      @chrisloomis1489 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This is what I try to do also , shooting digital I collected affordable prime lenses, then older prime lenses. I want the new gear but have learned to love old 1960’s lenses.

  • @RaymondPros
    @RaymondPros 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    My God, I'm a beginner in photography but been working as a musician full time, all I can say is the first thing I notice is your background music..It so relaxing and of course thanks for this man it inspires me to take more photos.. Keep safe!

  • @theblueblazebeyond4766
    @theblueblazebeyond4766 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    A needed perspective! I have been saying for a number of years now that I don't need any new photo gear - I need to get out there and use what I have. Thank you for expressing this so perfectly!

  • @WetDoggo
    @WetDoggo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for your precious insights... I'll try keeping all them in mind

  • @PhilosophyProf14
    @PhilosophyProf14 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I'm so glad I found your channel. Thanks for what you do! I recently sent myself on the sort of "assignment" you describe here. I was waiting in a public area for an hour or so on a bright spring day. There wasn't anything about the place that one would typically describe as photogenic, but I passed the time exploring ways of photographing the shadows of chairs, tables, and trees, and I like some of what I produced quite a bit. As you said, maybe no one else would like those images, but I got something out of the process and the products.

  • @washingtonradio
    @washingtonradio 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    There is an adage that many 'look but do not see'. Too often we are immersed in the tyranny of the 'here and now' to actually look around and see something interesting; something that has been in our faces but we have never or refused to notice. The something interesting could be one's messy (or very tidy) desk.
    Also, taking photos that interest me and taken the way I want to take them and thus please me is liberating. I am not chasing after the approval of others who often may not understand what I saw and made me take a photo.

  • @cieszewskimariusz
    @cieszewskimariusz 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fantastic lecture! It's about life, not just photography. LOOK BEYOND THE OBVIOUS! It was pure pleasure! Have a great day!

  • @ChrisHunt4497
    @ChrisHunt4497 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Thank you so much Alex for another wonderful lesson and for explaining to us how to exactly go about it. I love your work and Sally Mann. 👍👍👍👍

  • @gabequezada2066
    @gabequezada2066 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    eloquently stated... a very deep understanding of film by trying to understand yourself first..

  • @George_Daza
    @George_Daza 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This man is like the best teacher ever. Awesome work!

  • @jobkneppers
    @jobkneppers 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good photo's are like good music. It doesn't matter if you listen to it from a vinyl (even 78 rpm for the young folks) record, an old tape cassette or a stream in high definition audio; it's the music itself that hits a certain vein in a wonderful way. The quality of the equipment were it was recorded on, or played back with, doesn't change that. Same goes for good photo's. It's not about the gear, it's about the message. In painting; same idea. I can count the density of the cloth she's wearing (also great art but it diminishes the opportunity to add your own unknown to it) vs e.g. Breitner who captured the moment in broad strips of paint and brings you right back to the scene many decades later.
    I just started to watch this channel after looking through a lot, and useful, content to decide on a new camera. This decision is made and I'm happy with what I chose. Now, starting to manage the complex camera (I'm from the black and white and wet era), I was wondering around the internet for inspiration and ways to go. I'm quite sure I found it here. Distilled; make some noise!, make your own noise! Thank you Alex! All the best, Job

  • @mahdiali6732
    @mahdiali6732 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is my favorite channel. Thoughtful photography passion tips

  • @kym-bid-bidstrup3623
    @kym-bid-bidstrup3623 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Alex, I'm so grateful for your work here. I feel you have a kind of genius to distil and inspire. I'm not so much learning from you (with great respect) as being moved and motivated.
    My current favourite photographer is, in fact, a cinematographer, the great Vittorio Storaro (The Last Emperor, Apocalypse Now, Luna, Reds, Last Tango In Paris etc etc.)

  • @Lt4991
    @Lt4991 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think this is one of your best videos in terms of photography advice. Thank you

  • @ruththomas9488
    @ruththomas9488 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I purchased some Tulips a few weeks ago & used my 50mm prime lens documenting them the moment I brought them home until the petals fell off a week later. I have some beautiful shots & so enjoyed the exercise.

  • @alandargie9358
    @alandargie9358 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your comment on being at an airport and wandering around taking pictures with your phone resonated greatly with me! I love that part of photography - just being able to see differently and capture interesting images from everyday life.

  • @brianm.9062
    @brianm.9062 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    such a beautiful line..... 4.32 a totally beautiful line 'copying without understanding' yes! I have always thrown ideas into the mix on a number of topics including photography, and people have said 'why did you tell them your secret'? to me its always been simple, no one can improve on an idea if they can't understand how the idea evolved! background is the foundation of 'the idea'.

  • @flowerich
    @flowerich 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing message! Very helpful and motivating... Love your videos!

  • @xxxjmgxxx
    @xxxjmgxxx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    You literally made me take out my camera in my room right now, and start taking random pictures of some stuff in my room in a completely different way.
    Thank you for the fresh approach. So refreshing that someone is talking about the thought process instead of another gear review.

  • @GJSsongsmith
    @GJSsongsmith 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very timely reminder for me . Thanks very much Alex for another great video . Have a great day . All the best Gary

  • @underthedrone2735
    @underthedrone2735 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    As an amateur photographer for many decades I noticed over time how I see things others don't and see things in an ever evolving way. I sometimes feel like the man with one eye in a world of the blind. Most people can't appreciate the difference. It seems to be beyond their critical thinking ability. This doesn't just affect my photography but also every aspect of life in general. It's not like it can be turned off once it's turned on. I guess I took the red pill. No going back.

    • @pedestrian2530
      @pedestrian2530 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Maybe a little bit of "sonder" could help

    • @SW-Video
      @SW-Video 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@pedestrian2530 Pithy.

  • @K9malinois_dog_love
    @K9malinois_dog_love 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love it 😍 thank you 🙏 I felt very inspired after watching.

  • @ivardahl-larsen
    @ivardahl-larsen 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Absolutely right, that is why I went back to my older P K5 and 3 as well as Ltd primes. Why, because it is about feelings, slowing down think and enjoy. It is again the Great pleasure of carressing my love. To again look through their windows, envision and create or the simple pleasure of catching a moment in sight, making it so right.

  • @davestewart5123
    @davestewart5123 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the vid, really appreciate your love and passion for the craft of seeing the world thru the lens.

  • @jcbarker1
    @jcbarker1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I recently found your channel, and I have become enamored with it. Your message is so refreshing and resonating. You have excellent delivery and your choices of images are so varied and interesting. Thank you!

  • @VintageInsightPhotography
    @VintageInsightPhotography 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well said. Images are all around us. Don’t miss the trees for the forest.

  • @joulsw3739
    @joulsw3739 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This is absolutely my problem, I can’t “see” an inspired photo and being so frustrated I’ve lost my photo mojo. I’m bored of my own photos and can’t find my way through it all and want to not copy either, not that I could ever reproduce them anyway. Thanks for your insight into tackling the problem… 🙏

  • @johnthomas1919
    @johnthomas1919 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I agree I takes pictures for me first. What makes me happy. Great advice

  • @LeonKotze70
    @LeonKotze70 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Alex, your channel is pure gold. It touches on a different part of creativity that very few do. Thanks a lot from a little town near Jhb. Pretoria

  • @RandomiValotus
    @RandomiValotus 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    this channel constantly inspires me with every video. thank you very much for this.

  • @raghav_k
    @raghav_k 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this Alex. Excellent thoughts and ideas!!

  • @Drosophilax
    @Drosophilax 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I whole-heartedly agree that one doesn't need half a dozen lenses to be creative. I have two that I regularly use (100 mm macro, 70 mm - 300 mm zoom). The third one is a wide angle pancake I use so rarely, I don't even remember the focal lens (somewhere around 25 mm). When I started photography more seriously, I took two ore sometimes all of them on the "hunt". (fear of missing the perfect picture, I guess) I soon discovered that switching lenses was such a distraction that I started to decide on one lens and work within its constraints. From my point if view, my learning-curve got steeper by having constraints. And I could better get in to a state of flow while walking, looking and taking pictures.
    Discovering your channel came at the right moment, when I started to get stuck with what an how I photographed. Thanks for giving the really important advice beyond gear.

  • @WEHAVETHISDREAM
    @WEHAVETHISDREAM 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    WOW! Was just talking with my wife, on the way home, about doing stuff the way you want it
    and not how people, even clients, want it (cause they only see what others are doing,
    but they should give you a chance to show how YOU can do the job in an unique way!).
    THE VIDEOS ARE SO INSPIRING!
    THANKS SO MUCH!

    • @Leprutz
      @Leprutz 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      So... did you start already?

  • @billybanter9573
    @billybanter9573 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is the most amazing video I have ever watched. I had to subscribe. I think the main takeaway here is be present in the present. Observe and take pictures.

  • @charlessummers7381
    @charlessummers7381 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Outstanding! I shoot what catches my eye. I have heard, "how did you see that"? Subject and perspective keeps it fresh.

  • @Sonofmu
    @Sonofmu 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I love the way you speak and explain things. I am trying to use a 24mm lens at the moment and I am also trying not to look at the screen all the time. I am taking photos to the best of my ability and only seeing them after I come back home. I feel it helps me not to hang onto the ability to retake photos. It is kinda very satisfying. Like I am using a very long film :)

  • @glang4657
    @glang4657 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Alex. You are so very encouraging.

  • @Tumbleweed1961
    @Tumbleweed1961 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Aaron Siskind said it better than I ever could.
    "We look at the world and see what we have learned to believe is there. We have been conditioned to expect... but, as photographers, we must learn to relax our beliefs." - Aaron Siskind

  • @AllBlacksNZ
    @AllBlacksNZ 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Bye far the best youtube channel to improve your photography that I have found so far. Words of wisdom as always.

  • @mazdaram226
    @mazdaram226 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I found just doing black and white images helped my composition, then adding colour later in my journey… great video matey..

  • @swansong007
    @swansong007 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow how refreshing it was to listen to you. See some outstanding images. I think your advice is just what I need right now. Thank you.

  • @ARTEGO70
    @ARTEGO70 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks! You are very inspiring. I haven't shot your videos for a long time, they remind me of the joy of taking pictures. I, too, have remained a fan of film photography just like you.

  • @davidluck8851
    @davidluck8851 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    somebody asked me as they were starting out (and I have only been doing photography for a few moths) he said what do I take pictures of ??? - my answer was what ever YOU like as you are freezing a moment of history that you can come back to time after time - because a photo is personal to the person who takes it ...... I hope this makes sense + I loved your explination on here 😉

  • @kris_tin_photography9922
    @kris_tin_photography9922 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thousand thanks for this amazing encouragement!

  • @lolingsaraee
    @lolingsaraee 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So happy I found your site, very interesting.

  • @brokenalgorithms4741
    @brokenalgorithms4741 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Another brilliant video! Honestly you might be the most valuable photography channel. I currently only have a 50mm since December 2020, because of financial constraints. I want to add a 28 and 100 macro, then call it good.

  • @DickHoskins
    @DickHoskins 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    “Seeing things that other people can’t” spot on...!

  • @Daniel_Zalman
    @Daniel_Zalman ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Alex, I'm grateful for this channel. You've inspired me to take my camera out and change the "why" of photography. I was thinking about buying a zoom lens (24-70 or 24-120) because it would give me flexibility and inspiration. Now, I've decided to just stick with my 50mm and see what the possibilities are with just one focal length. Then, if I get ideas for images that need a different focal length (like the images in that inspiring wide angle video you made), that's why I'll consider getting something. I actually want to try that "finding the alphabet in my surroundings" exercise you mentioned. I think it will get me to start thinking more graphically about imagery (i.e. to see shapes and relationships between shapes).

  • @geoffmphotography9444
    @geoffmphotography9444 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Once again, a helpful and informative video Alex. It doesn't hurt to be reminded.

  • @erichstocker8358
    @erichstocker8358 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a very strong technical bent so I love gear. Indeed I love both mechanical and digital gear. I have spent way too much on it. However, a very long time ago when I was still VERY young, I knew that Ansel Adams or Walker Evans with a oatmeal box pinhole camera would take better photos than I with my Leica M4 or Sony A7RIII. Gear can make the job to execute your vision much easier but it doesn't give you that vision. From one of your earlier videos I loved Walker Evans (I knew some of his famous photos but not him). I purchased that book you had and am studying it in detail. On many of the photos I ask myself what triggered him to take that shot and how did he likely execute it. Sometimes a very productive enterprise to try to get a similar look and encounter all the challenges of bringing that off. Can learn (even us old geezers) that way. Enjoyed this video as I have enjoyed all of yours.

  • @zmanindy
    @zmanindy 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know this isn't what the video is about but it made me realize I have a camera in my pocket! Your comment about walking around the airport looking for pictures to take made me think about earlier today. I drive by a location I have wanted to photograph but weather, light, surrounding vegetation have not been right. It's a run down barn in a field. Today was not a good nice sky but cloudy. What caught my eye today is the clouds had texture to them and as I drove by I thought man I wish I had my camera. I should have stopped and used my phone! Hopefully I will remember the next time I drive by and I see the picture I am trying to take.

  • @hertzkot
    @hertzkot 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the excellent advice, I follow what you say and apply it to cellphone photos.

  • @fado605
    @fado605 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your knowledge, sincerity and authenticity is truly inspiring.

  • @narelle4868
    @narelle4868 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is terrific. Thankyou. Just seeing with a different eye, even if not for a photograph, is a very pleasant thing to do.

  • @jackstutts6439
    @jackstutts6439 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I really liked what you said about taking photos to make yourself happy and not to please others or gain more likes on social media. I photograph wildlife, birds primarily. Not at all like the images you referenced in this video. But I do think your admonition to look for a different way to make an image, one that a photographer standing next to you would ask how did you see that applies even to my genre. So thanks for the inspiration to look for new ways to capture my subjects. This is going to be interesting.

  • @malcolmrendle6622
    @malcolmrendle6622 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Bang on Alex, plus these days with digital, photography is free, unlike the old days of film where every shot had to be considered as it was so expensive , ( not that that is necessarily a bad thing), but today there is no excuse not to experiment, plus with instant results of digital you can try many things until you get the result that pleases.

  • @freedomastrology6567
    @freedomastrology6567 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I’m a new baby photographer :) moving slowly just enjoying the process of learning and seeing the world in new ways I’ve been practicing taking pictures on my phone (for now) every day for the last couple months you inspire me a lot! Thank you for these awesome videos;) ! wishing you health and happiness ❤️

    • @curiousabout1
      @curiousabout1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Awesome! And don't for one second feel like because you're using a phone that it doesn't count. I just started a bit over a year ago with my phone, and have learned to make some pretty dang great images. I did what you're doing, except my goal was to post something to IG once a day at least six days a week, that I could be proud of. Now a year and a couple months later, usually posting seven days a week, I've taught myself so much, have garnered a good number of features from other photogs and sites and even made a handful of sales. All using the same phone I started with, and that I'm still using today.

  • @lenscap8925
    @lenscap8925 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    familiarity breeds contempt...
    Went to an art show and a photographer had photos of buildings,neon signage and stadiums that were local icons and now lost to "progress". Kicking myself I asked why hadn't "seen" these, and at least had a reference photo. Miami FL is going through a massive redevelopment, transportation systems, condo/hi-rise buildings, the seaport and river area,shopping concept areas.The old places, and local history, disappear- in your lifetime! They only live on in photo archives and fading memories...

  • @iklop1478
    @iklop1478 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I admit that I'm lost in my quest for photographic inspiration and a personal way of creating art with my camera.
    I do mostly wildlife and nature photography, I like it a lot but it is not very creative or artistic work.
    for a while now I've been asking myself what am I doing it for and started to think that maybe there is no point in it.
    seeing your video reminded me of why I like taking photos and made me think of it in a different way.
    I think I'll take your advice and carry my small and not so new Olympus with one prime lens in my bag when I go out of the house and just look at the world around me like I did when I first bought it.
    thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and wisdom.

  • @robinbhairam7508
    @robinbhairam7508 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I recently had lunch in London, when we left the restaurant to head to the pub, I spotted something about the Shard, not having my camera with me (naughty I know!), I reached for my phone and took what I saw. The friends I was with commented “How on earth did you see that, we were with you?!” It was at that point I realised I have started looking at the world differently! Excellent video 😊

  • @MarcusDolby
    @MarcusDolby 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    My favorite lens is the $120 nifty fifty. Really makes me move around and work for it.

  • @davehenderson9105
    @davehenderson9105 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Absolutely wonderful video. Very much encouraged me to reconnect to the love of my photography

  • @jurrydevries4006
    @jurrydevries4006 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fascinating, intriguing but above all: inspirational and motivational. I am a journey and your videos are showing road junctions. Thank you so much.

  • @richardpeters5173
    @richardpeters5173 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow. Inspiring and elevating. Thanks.

  • @charliejg
    @charliejg 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks again for your passionate and motivating perspective.... Have a great week!

  • @PiotrKowalskiPhoto
    @PiotrKowalskiPhoto 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Personally i do like new lens cause it does motivate but it is short term, i found out that sometime i need it. It helps the creative juice flowing. Especially buyiing so dirty cheap old retro lense or some weird ass focal lengths ;) I did struggle with 'what did i be shooting' but in the end i just do whati feel like without any stree and feeling the presure and expectations of others.
    Rule number first, You do You, if it is not consistent , maybe it should be like that. Give Yourself time, it is hard to focus on single style, it has to come to You. Totally agree with You !

  • @joelk8228
    @joelk8228 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I enjoy every program, Alex. Thanks for your insight and your stellar presentations. I like them all! Boise, Idaho

  • @arturoduchateau
    @arturoduchateau 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Alex, so great! Nice weekend.

  • @kickstand11117
    @kickstand11117 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you soooo much for this video sir.
    I’ve had a bit of “photographers block” lately…you know; when the word just seems flat and bland and nothing seems worthy of a photo. I’ve been saving up to get a good zoom and macro so I can expand my options but now I’m thinking “yes I could use those lenses but I need to rethink how I’m looking at the world. I need to work harder to find the beauty in my often seemingly bleak and boring daily life.”
    This has been a great inspiration to me.
    Thanks again.
    Cheers✌🏻🙂

  • @FlatWaterFilms
    @FlatWaterFilms 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It's going to be -14 F here tomorrow. I'm depressed. Long cold winter, I'm too old for this. Been researching historical societies in areas I photograph and have found a treasure chest of old photo's. I link them together and create videos. Add some spellbinding music and I literally create my own reality. WoW ... Fun Stuff. Waiting to get out with the new 17-40 'L'. To only be a professional back in the day! I want to be on main street, 1920 capturing the moment, for the record.

  • @kudakwasheisaacmasosonore5624
    @kudakwasheisaacmasosonore5624 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The more l want your channel the more l learn new and exciting aspects about photography especially on the way we view things. I like the emphasis on the image and not the gear. That was one thing that led me to this channel cause l was getting stressed with my own photography that it's not waal as compared to other photographers. Thank you Alex.

  • @michaelnutsch221
    @michaelnutsch221 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much, Alex. Sometimes I return to my EOS 1000D and kit lens just for fun. And it helps me focus on photography more.

  • @usacic
    @usacic 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    of all the video I have watched on our channel, this might be my absolutely favorite. I cant wait to use this advice.

  • @thomashilmersen711
    @thomashilmersen711 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Stellar video, Alex. Much better than those endless and extremely boring equipment reviews most TH-camrs post.

  • @itaylorm
    @itaylorm 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your videos inspire me to extend and improve myself by looking athletic things differently

  • @scottk.8494
    @scottk.8494 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I watch a lot of channels but I really enjoy yours because as you said, it doesn't revolve around tech and gear. I just overhauled my gear by going mirrorless and getting a few film cameras but your channel is refreshing and interesting. You say things that I might feel about photography and it's nice to see how others might feel, think, or have the same realizations. Keep up the good work 👍

  • @GiNodrog
    @GiNodrog 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Absolutely brilliant video, I've just stumbled on your video for the fist time! you've totaly summed up what I feel about photogtaphy. Thank you and yes I've subscribed.

  • @tanyadeleeuw
    @tanyadeleeuw 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    ooh you've seen the Kelpies! on my bucket list! loving seeing more of your work, Alex!

  • @dimitrisadamopoulos
    @dimitrisadamopoulos 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The only photography evangelist in YT. Thank so much for your videos. Our "why" is the way to make great photos, not our gear. Cheers.

  • @kevywilliams3304
    @kevywilliams3304 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent info. Thank you .

  • @secularnevrosis
    @secularnevrosis 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    As a musician I have to agree. If you like someones work and want to create something that has the "same" creative flavour.... but not be a copy. Then you study what inspired your favourite photogarpher, musician or artist.
    The gear is not as important. It only needs to be able to, sort of, do what you want. But it can also be used as a creative boundary or challenge.

  • @bobbowring1702
    @bobbowring1702 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Well said Alex. I use a lot of older lenses as They are well built and they are mostly made out of metel and they where my dads god rest his soul, Ilike the vintage look that they give and most are manual focus. I am disabled with walking problems but I am trying different things now days, I am coming away from my comfort zone and looking for other avenues,for a change. Great videos.

  • @HelamanGile
    @HelamanGile 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I mean I bought it a good camera and a good lens and it made a world of difference vs my phone

  • @dominicwroblewski5832
    @dominicwroblewski5832 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The path to becoming a better photographer is to stop looking and start seeing. Seeing what is possible with what you have in front of you. When the Covid-19 lock down began I set out to only photograph in my back yard. That was over 2 years ago and I haven't stopped finding new ways to see and photograph in my own back yard. This was the best thing that I could have done to be a better photographer. See things in a completely new way.

  • @mikeknapik6746
    @mikeknapik6746 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey Alex,
    Another winner! Thanks for the inspirational words.

  • @jtinoco9859
    @jtinoco9859 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very inspirational message to get out there and photograph in my own creative ways. Thank you!