5 Things Beginner Portrait Photographers Should NEVER Buy

[@caldera878]

I found an old Nikon lens from the 70's and there was an UV filter on it. After removing the filter, the front element is in pristine new condition. I then realized that UV filters work perfectly as protection for the front element.

[@toxicginger9936]

Makes sense it was still on that lens. UV filters do a lot more when photographing on film than they do on digital sensors (which is basically nothing). My dad was a professional photographer, and I started out using his 1968 Nikon. He made me swear to never take off the UV filter unless it was damaged and I was replacing it. "There had always better be a filter on the front of that lens in case you drop it."

[@KeemoRicablanca]

Yup! I've never purchased any preset. I think learning LR or PS is much needed than just slapping "lipstick" to your photo

[@donhull2440]

I'm and amateur but I have been at this for over 60 years and I've learned a few things along the way. Here is some of the advice I give to beginning portrait/glamour photographers. I disagree about buying a UV or "protective" filter. I tell new photographers to buy cheapest plain glass "protective" filter they can find for their lens, preferably one that is more than 20 or 30 years old and uncoated. This "protective" filter is wonderful for causing "lens" flare when you want it. The rest of the time just drop it into your camera bag and don't worry about it - a few scratch marks will only improve it. I advise beginner portrait/glamour photographers NOT to buy softboxes or studio strobes at first. A simple white 42" umbrella with a removable black backing used with a GN60 hot-shoe flash is 95% as good as a similarly sized softbox/strobe combination and a hell of a lot less expensive for a beginner. In an environment with nearby walls or other surfaces, e.g. indoors, use the umbrella in reflection mode with the black backing for maximum light control or use it in shoot through mode to light up the environment as well as the subject. If you are in an open environment, e.g. outdoors, use whichever mode you want. Get a GN 60 hot-shoe flash, not one that is lower powered. You will sometimes need all the power you can get from a GN60 hot-shoe flash. To find the position for the umbrella stem in the umbrella bracket so that the flash fills the umbrella with light without any spilling past the umbrella's rim simply take photos of the back of the umbrella while triggering the flash. Note that it may be necessary to use the light diffusing panel of the flash to properly fill the inside of the umbrella with light. Once you start finding that there are things you can't do with one or two hot-shoe flashes and umbrellas then start looking at what is the best buy for your money in studio strobes and softboxes. I have more than enough strobes and softboxes for any shoot I would want to do yet there are times when KISS is the right solution and I bring out my hot-shoe flash and umbrella. When you do buy studio strobes the one absolute necessity is a modeling light that is bright enough to be useful. You won't be able to accurately replicate your strobe lighting with the modeling lights but they are vital for showing you where the main light is on the subject. Try finding Rembrandt lighting without modeling lights and you will see why they are so important. something

[@JulesFredericNerestant]

Presets and LUTS are the UV filters of the KZbin Game. This comment was brought to you in part by Squarespace.

[@aprilalexander]

😂😂😂😂

[@khaii13]

up!

[@KamillGomez]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@deirdreryan7402]

I’ve always used a UV filter. The one time I didn’t it got scratched. Yes I used the lens hood, but when I went to sell it, there was a scratch on the glass. So I will always use them. To me protecting my $$$$$ lenses with a high quality filter like a B+W, is worth it. Even in the studio I’ve never had any issues.

[@EdgarHernandez-xj5mx]

Buy a cheaper body but more lenses over buying an expensive body with less lenses.

[@Thepukuyscoolpix]

I think purchasing UV filters depends on the person. I bought it specifically for splash protection. Cleaning cheap glass vs the front element of my lens shuts down the oc in me. 😆

[@edn7651]

I must say I have fallen into the trap of the preset purchase. Thinking exactly what you said. That if I slapped a preset on my photo it would make it exceptional. I slowly realize that that wasn’t the case. Then I learned to take better photos. And still committed to learning more.

[@pauldestocki6356]

I will disagree on the UV filters. Buy a quality one, not cheap junk. I have had UV filters save my lenses from welding sparks, flying gravel, etc. The 1 lens I did not put a UV filter on was destroyed by the lens cap that came with my lens. The spring came out of the cap and scratched the front element. Also, a UV keeps you from scratching the front element when you clean the lens. Filters by your lens manufacturer, Heliopan, B+W, etc. are all quite good and will not degrade the iq.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

I won't disagree with you on your points, however, I'm talking about portrait photography. 99.9% of the people out there aren't going to be in situations where they are shooting portraits with welding sparks or flying gravel coming at them, especially when they are starting out. They are niche products to me and not the defacto purchase that a person starting out should buy. Just my .02, but I appreciate your feedback!

[@afonsosantos8364]

@@MiguelQuilesJr in studio I remove my B+W filters, outdoors I always use them and the lens hood also. Already scored some scratch saves. Best 100eur I spent to protect my 135mm GM.

[@TopherOlson]

Yep, I agree with Miguel and the dissenters. I leave the UV filter off nearly always, except when I'm someplace like a windy beach where sand could leave fine scratches on my lens.

[@caldera878]

This has always been highly debated but for me I leave my UV filters on as a sort of "transparent" lens cap. Overall the filter does prevent all the dust, dirt, and especially tiny drops of liquid that would otherwise land right on the front element. I rather clean the filter instead of cleaning the actual front element multiple times.

[@OrthoGothChristian]

100% this. Unless I'm working in a studio environment, I am keeping filters over my lenses. I've tested shots with and without my expensive B+W filters, and haven't been able to notice a difference. I've shoot wide, telephoto at various f-stops, and even experimented with lense flares... No discernable difference in sharpness or image quality, and if there is, it's sooooo negligable, it's not worth risking scratching or damaging my $1,000+ sony glass

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

That's my list, but what are some things that I left out? Help out some beginners and leave your feedback here!

[@anandhupolaroid]

1. Cheap camera bag(with time those separations float around) 2. Rubber camera cover (why pay a lot for an accessory that makes even pressing button difficult)

[@aaronedwards6075]

So do i take it your not a fan of luminar

[@boahandarrowsproductions4326]

You know, with the uv filter it did come in handy when my camera tipped over from my tripod during an event. I wasn't close enough to catch the camera. The Uv filter was cracked and my lens had a small dent in the filter ring but was good to go.

[@MirekFe]

Miguel. I know this has nothing to do with the camera equipment itself, but when I noticed in the video that you were working with a Microsoft surface laptop, I remembered another thing beginners usually fall for. _Macs are the only good professional products for photo editing._ I have heard this nonsense, so many times.

[@vvassall28]

Yep. Fell into quite a few of these that you mentioned. Another never buy is cheap light stands. Buying a few hundred dollars on flashes and strobes only to put it on cheap Amazon stands will cost you more - in terms of stability and reliability.

[@86mapman]

Good video. Aside from the first suggestion regarding UV filters. ALWAYS USE ONE ON EXPENSIVE GLASS. I use hoods in adverse conditions in ADDITION to a UV filter. Had I not had UV’s on my lenses in Afghanistan I would have a broken front element on a L 70-200mm 2.8 IS and a 35mm Summicron. Much easier to spend $50-80 on a good B&W filter than ruin $2k+ lenses. Plus they keep the dust out!

[@blakeherron1]

How great would it have been if directly after #3 he popped in with a Miguel Quiles Preset package... "50% off just in time for the holidays!"

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

That would have been pretty damn funny! 😂😂

[@deonmills]

🤣🤣😆

[@stevenevosando8840]

But also would be AWESOME !!!!! 🤙🏻

[@daveemilio67]

I totally expected this!

[@grantmedical]

Hey Miguel... Here are some of my life lessons to share... (1) Do not buy a tripod as a beginner... I ended up with an expensive cupboard item... (2) Do not buy an extreme telephoto lens until you have used a 70-200mm lens for awhile... (3) Don't buy a prime lens (except for a 35mm) until you have understood perspective, subject isolation, framing, composition, and truly understand and appreciate subject to camera range... I have more but these are my first thoughts... Oh one more thing... If I had to do it all over I would still buy the smallest interchangeable lens mount mirrorless camera (APS-C or m43) that you think is just the most "sexy" and "awesome" travelling companion.... Forget about specs and comparison to other cameras and brands... Love your first "teacher"... with just a fast 35mm equivalent lens and with shooting for one year before investing thousands of dollars - will really help you to assess your needs and how much you are willing to spend on your love for the Art...

[@patricksmith2553]

I personally always buy and use from day one Nikon NC clear filters for my lenses. I have one on my 16-35mm f4 VR, 24-70mm VR and 70-200mm f2.8 VR FL. All expensive lenses, and not to protect the lens. It’s for one, weather sealing, Canon and Nikon have confirmed you need a front filter to complete the weather sealing. Second it protects the front element from losing coatings from cleaning it over and over for years. Plus you might accidentally rub dirt or debris across your lens and scratch it, but with a filter you at least didn’t just scratch your actual front element. Expensive filters like the $100-$130 Nikon filters are not UV, they are clear and they are worth it too me every time. Also Miguel I doubt knows how much markup is on gear, especially at the larger stores like B and H who purchase massive quantities and get deep discounts. I worked for a major camera store, and we had a pretty good markup. Obviously I agree with him on most lenses, but the professional gear has big markups. Like Nikon D5/D6 or Canon 1Dx series or super-tele lenses. I was able to buy a Canon 500mm f4 IS at cost and it was a good $2,500 less than retail at the time in 2006. I also got a Nikon 200-400mm f4 VR a couple years later for $4,800 when it was $6,800 retail. So there can and is a lot of markup on professional level video and stills gear. There is also a lot of markup on accessories like bags, etc.

[@RobJorg]

1. true 2. if you cant do it by hand you need to focus on it. agreed with Miquel. stick to Photoshop and capture one. phlearn and pixperfect are great channels. 3. couldn't agree more 4. you get what you pay for. a brand and more expensive card wil pay of in the long term. (also recommended card by manufacturer) 5. exactly, also check amazon for warehousedeals on the stuf you wanne buy. great video Miquel, sorry cant effort your course, no income due to covid. keep up the good work and keep the videos coming.

[@omegaman1409]

Lens hood has always been the key. I just gave up on uv filters. Now cpl filter might be the only purpose filter I might consider.

[@Stone1108]

Hi Miguel, a fan of your channel and learn plenty, thanks. I just want to say though that I believe we should support our local camera shops (yep a Brit so I call them shops ...!!). But lets be clear, I don't mean that we should just hand hard earned cash over by buying stuff we don't need UV's is one if shooting in studio I guess. Just that you buy stuff from the the shops more and don't just click away (out of lock down!), not only do you get advice and guidance first-hand but you get to hold and try, event hire to buy the gear, build rapport and trust. Not only this but they are a kind of photography community and would be sorely missed if they aren't supported by us and forced out of business, especially now. So I agree, don't buy unnecessary items, just buy more of what you would anyway from them, the people in-shop (store) are good allies at the very least, aren't they!

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

I couldn't agree more! I try and support my local camera stores as much as I can by buying the things that I think are worthwhile. Filters and off brand stuff that is sold at the same prices as name brand gear is where I draw the line though. Most don't do that, but many do. ✌️

[@fotowalo]

I agree 5 of 5.....but I say also.... if you're an amareur, don't by expensive flashes. Buy Godox, it safes a lot of money and the quality ist very good (for amateur !)

[@memcrew1]

No way man! Broncolor or profoto all the way!

[@fotowalo]

@@memcrew1 we're talking about beginners, not professional. I used Broncolor flashes many years, but for1 head you buy 3-4 godoxflashes.... that's ok for amaturs and beginners.

[@memcrew1]

@@fotowalo but how will these amateurs take beautiful photos? You need broncolor or profoto, there’s no way around that.,

[@EliInfante]

Great stuff Miguel! For me, I would say cheap modifiers & light stands.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thanks Eli! Couldn't agree with you more on that. I've ripped my fair share of cheap modifiers up and lost a light or two thanks to cheapo stands.

[@FarHagh]

I would say anything cheapo! If you are serious about something buy the best, or buy it 2 or 3 or more times (last time that best)

[@waynosfotos]

Yep forgot that one, lighting is key.

[@aussie8114]

Not sure if you’re claiming UV filters are not needed or protection filters are not needed. The term UV filter is pretty much obsolete in digital photography but protection filters are very relevant in my opinion. I wouldn’t bother putting a protection filter on my lower cost lenses especially if the front element is well recessed but I certainly have them on my better lenses that are in the thousands to replace. A decent filter makes zero effective difference in the image quality, I’ve tested mine extensively. I do agree though that the hoods offer good extra impact protection. I don’t consider protection filters to be a rip off. $150 filter on a $4,000 lens is a no brainer.

[@EdgardB]

Great tips. I'm getting into photography now and thought about presets. Good thing I watched before I did.

[@skrzypczakpiotr1543]

I felt it from the begining and thank You for confirmation. Photos shoud leave evidence of what and how we see with human eye, the beauty we witness, as if we were looking though a glass.

[@garys639]

No matter what you say you will always get pushback...thanks for the vid Miguel...shot the Australian bushfires last year without filters...no damage to lens elements...maybe M.Zuiko just make strong lenses.

[@christopherreddick5263]

I ironically got an AI retouching ad in the middle of watching this video. Great video Miguel!

[@charleshacker765]

One to add is those silly telephoto screw-on adapters. They are cheap, but boy do I regret it! I'm talking to you, Vivitar! There are some items that I purchased cheap that I will never regret: Used lenses and plastic extension tubes. I am happy to have saved that money, and their quality did not affect the photos.

[@michaelj7069]

I sell cameras. It’s not the salesman, it’s usually the company pushing them to do it. I refuse to sell one unless they come in to ask. I do use one on my own X100v because Fuji says it’s weather sealed with it . LoL. All my other lenses, no filters.

[@charlesblack2252]

Good points Miguel. I would observe though that not all camera manufacturers supply a lens hood. Canon are one of the culprits here and it is a ripoff to make consumers pay a lot of money extra for something that is essential and would only cost a small amount to include with the lens. Canon charge hundreds for some of their larger lens hoods. Full marks here to Tamron who do supply the hoods. Presets - totally agree. I have been gifted hundreds of them from various companies over the years and never used any of them. How someone chooses a preset from some of these packages - sometimes with hundreds of presets - I really cannot see. It seems much quicker and more effective to edit your picture in the way that seems best for it.

[@juergendechert2706]

Very good advice - agree to all points. Just a remark on the use of UV or Skylight filters - I think those were useful in the past during film times (for sea & mountain shots) - not today where lens manufacturers put huge efforts in designing and manufacturing their lenses at highest optical standards. Any piece of glass in front will decrease/deminish their optical calculations and picture quality. The only real use of any UV filter I can think of in portrait photography is if you want put a grease film in front of your lens to create dreamy David Hamilton style photos - that's what I would definitely not put on my front element of my Nikon lenses ;-) Best regards and keep going with your format - JED

[@MirekFe]

I started photography with film, and the issue was if you didn't have a UV filter on your lens, especially during strong sunlight (UV rays), you had a hazy fine grid result on your photos. Today UV filters aren't really important, but I'd rather replace a UV filter than my lens because of sand particles scratching up my glass during a photographic session.

[@BigMilan]

yep. great tips. I never mess with presets. like you said - they really only work for the same exact situation from the one they were first made for

[@mikesmithch]

I do not use a UV filter unless I am shooting at the beach to keep abrasive sand off the glass

[@bewarethefuryofapatientman]

Your vids are GREAT, thank you

[@silverbladzz]

Thanks for this awesome video. You got another subscriber.

[@waynosfotos]

Kit lenses, i bought a camera with one but hardly used it, even though it was called the premium kit. I used it at first but because i had done photography years before i didn't like it. Although it had a zoom function, i still kept walking as it would not give me the look i liked due to the slow aperture and it varies through the zoom. I went and bought a 85mm 1.8 and a nifty fifty. Was much happier. My point is there is much better reasonable lenses. I don't hate zooms, but you need a very expensive one to perform well, whilst many cheaper primes are really good for the money. The problem is, to a beginner, a zoom sounds really good as you can set the focal length, but you don't get control over that dreamie background you can get with faster lenses

[@mikebaginy8731]

I agree with your suggestions, Miguel. My mistake was to buy a 3rd party battery for my Canon Video camera some 15 years ago. Instead of about $90 I only paid about $18 on ebay. My wonderful 3rd party battery held exactly ONE charge, then died. So much for savings. I bought a Thumbs Up thumb rest for my Fujifilm X-Pro1 along with a soft release button. Not cheap, but great quality and I enjoy using the camera till this day. I then bought a Fujifilm X100-T and wanted the same items, but thought I'd save some cash and buy far cheaper ones via ebay. The thumb rest wiggles and the soft release button became loose and went lost. If only I'd invested in the originals!!!

[@dechertphotography]

Did you get the Rotolight X1?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Sure did! Made a video on it 👍

[@dechertphotography]

@@MiguelQuilesJr I guess I should have watched that one first. Homer says DOH!!!!

[@VideoPortfolio2010]

Great vid! Can I ask what program made those text effects @5:39? thanks!

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thanks! I believe I downloaded that one from either Video Blocks or Adobe Stock. 👍

[@romekk3975]

I have made the mistake of buying the best gear I could afford. Instead, I should have gone directly to used professional gear which comes at a fraction of the price of new items but gives you way more creative possibilities. I bought a Canon 80D for three times the price of 5DMkI. Today, I am selling 80D and I actually only use the 5D. Why do we learn so slow...

[@anthonyclark8721]

I fell right in the bundle trap. You are right to let people know about it. I could have gotten a 50mm f1.8 with the extra money I spent. Thanks Miguel.

[@precinsalvan5793]

1. UV Filter 2. AI retouching programs 3. LUTs or Presets 4. Cheap Memory cards 5. Camera bundles

[@Fifthimagez]

Great video thanks 🙏🏾

[@winni223]

As for UV filters, the big myth is that they somehow improve the image, but for dust/ drops protection - they serve the purpose. I managed to save the non-changeable lens on Olympus E-10 back in the days and more recently my Nikon's 80-200 & 70-200 with filters on. Lens hoods? Well, disputable unless you don't shoot in the direct sun ;)

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

Man a $6 uv filter goes along way to keep scratches off your lens especially if your doing portraits on the road and vintage lenses that dont have caps. Take it off your $1000+ lens when you shoot the put it back on no big deal.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Vintage lenses might be the only ones that I could maybe see making sense, but the coatings on modern glass made the need for UV Filters obsolete. I haven't had a single filter on any of my lenses and they are all pristine. Shot in every situation, no issues. The most common situations that beginners will find themselves in will rarely require protection beyond a lens hood. To each their own of course. 😁✌️

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

@@MiguelQuilesJr yeah man. I will agree that putting a cheap UV filter over pristine glass to actually block UV is pretty dumb. Take care.

[@standhd]

Yea, man my Sony a7iii slot 1 will only recognize UHSII cards now. One day during a shoot it displayed an error message telling me the camera doesn’t recognize the card and to reinsert. And yes, the cards were formatted correctly and the camera has the latest firmware update. I did research, and it could be any number of things causing the issue. Luckily this camera has a second slot which has become my primary because a lot of my memory cards are the cheaper UHS I cards.....🤔

[@trevtog]

Instead of the UV filter, I use my lens hoods to help protect my lenses. Most of my "good glass" doesn't need the hoods to reduce flare. I tell people it is one time I do recommend being "in the hood" LOL.

[@JustinCase1021]

That uv filter has saved the front glass on a few of my lens

[@AlvaroEEscalanteAular]

Thanks for the recommendation Mr. Quiles.

[@janoti6073]

Honestly I didn't have a uv Filter for my lense at first but after about a month I had the first scratches on the lens.. the reason was every time I put the lens Cap on I couldn't really fit it because the Cap sucks and the hood is annoying. 2 months and a scratched 1500€ lens...

[@nathbala7822]

Cheap camera tripod, cheap flash tripod, No name studio flash (or brand) with only 5 f-stop or with potentiometer, cheap "softbox" umbrella with a zipper for the tripod (can angle like you want).

[@reuvenhuertas3493]

On #5 I tend to buy a lot from Amazon and shop around in different days for price, and I now for experience all those toys are junk, one thing the I got the came with my sigma 16mm lens was an altura sling bag I give it some use I knew won’t be fore ever but it came with the lens, thanks Miguel for the recommendations, awesome videos every time and informative

[@jdonalds2001]

If a bundle is the same price as the single unit it can be a good deal. I bought an item with a bundle. Most of the cheap stuff that was included went in the trash. But the bundle included a sling bag that I use all the time.

[@b991228]

How about purchasing a luminousity masking action. It’s not so hard to make your own action that you can’t make your own and you can make it to your taste. In many cases the purchased luminosity masking is unnecessarily complicated.

[@blue_ranger]

Cheap bags. Like the memory cards, are false economy.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Amen to that!

[@gersonmadrid6675]

Oh yeah I have 4 that I never use

[@heroicmonkey714]

I can attest to purchasing one of those huge bundles. I had thought that I was going to receive another battery and charger in addition to the one provided in the box-- making it seem like a better deal than it actually was. Caveat lector! I've learned my lesson

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Exactly this! Sorry to hear they got you. You'd think based on the photos that they are giving you what comes in the box plus the items in the photos but that's rarely the case.

[@chisomowascrap6569]

I need to get video strobe am in Malawi how can I get it

[@NikBryantPhoto]

Don’t buy presets is all well and good but I had a preset made specifically for me and the way I shoot. Sent the files to a preset creator and worked together over 6 months to get the preset working over a vast style of images to make mine look the way I wanted to. Its not a quick fix but a preset is a great base to start on and i still tweak each image but i would rather do that than painstakingly individually edit 5-600 wedding images

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

I have my own Presets that I use too. The way you did it is what I'd recommend. 😁👍

[@afonsosantos8364]

Don’t buy cheap/small tripod heads. All of them ended up not being able hold my A7M3 with a 85mm lens in portrait mode. Some could even only hold a small speedlight, as soon as you upgrade to something beefier (Godox AD200) they also become useless.

[@LukeAntunes]

I definitely have used presets before but have decided to start only using my own! I got them as a free download so at least I didn’t buy them lol! Thanks for sharing!

[@poudrieres]

Good UV filters almost cost as much as a cheap lens (like Canons nifty fifty) - there has to be a good profit margin in these product. If you need UV filters depends on where you shoot, what the conditions are and how you handle your gear in general. Personally, I do rely on lens hoods and a holster bag for my (documentary) landscape photography.

[@Julius_S]

I really like this video, but as a full-time event, wedding and portrait photographer, I have to disagree with the UV/clear filter advice. I used to not use clear filters and my lenses would fill with dust living here in Southern AZ desert within a few months. Just 6 months or so and my 35 and 85 would be so filled with dust that the image quality reduction was dramatic and noticeable. I was constantly sending them in for cleanings. I've kept clear filters on for about a year now and have noticed zero impact on my photos, outside of a stray flare here and there for which I can just take the filter off, and the dust has been almost nonexistent. I'm sure if you're in a non-dusty, non-sandy environment, clear filters are useless. But I don't think it's appropriate to make a blanket statement like that - they most certainly have their place.

[@jockeoscarsson]

You Are SPOT ON!!! Thanks!

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thank you! 🙌🙌

[@danielfbg]

Regarding your point on presets. I agree with you, that it’s no magic trick/button. But I have learned a lot from buying presets and photoshop actions. There are some youtubers online that really go through the process of explaining and learning you how to use presets and tweak them to your image. I personally think this is a great way of learning softwares like LR and PS. Thanks for the video!!

[@jmg5878]

Budget tripods and stands. Invest some money in a solid tripod or light stand. I mean they’ll serve their purpose for a bit but once you get a little better you’ll see how frustrating cheap gear can be in studio or the field

[@beatmixer0097]

[My] uses for a UV filter (more protection) on my lenses is to protect the front element when shooting sports. When I have an Olympic gold medalist going full speed towards me to scoop up a ball, the chances of the sand they are diving in and a small pebble flying up and hitting my front element HAPPENS. I know this because I had to replace my front element for my 85GM and that cheap filter would have saved me a lot of money. Now, this video is about portraiture and I agree and take off those filters when shooting portraiture. But, some of us find value in these filters for specific uses. Oh and I don’t see any degradation in my images that used a cheap filter, nor do the clients who buy them for marketing purposes. There’s a time and a place for filters and portraiture isn’t really one of them.

[@shaneroachford892]

On the photo editing software what about Affinity Photo? Thoughts?

[@ayugboblessing]

I watched this video anticipating to see one thing I bought as a beginner that will make this. I watched from 1-4, I was feeling cool with my self that I haven’t bought any of those items and boom! Number 5 came up and I started smiling because my first camera (Nikon d5600) that I got on eBay, it will with so many add-ons. I was excited when I was ordering because of the so much add-one but on arriving I soon discovered that they were all made for the trash can. Thank you very much for this video. But I have a question. I have seen some videos where some reviewers say a beginner should never buy a LIGHT METER, what’s your take on that?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

That is too funny! I save that one for last, mainly because of seeing people have that same experience. Bundles are the worst! As for your other question, I think beginners should learn how to use their cameras built in light meter before they ever consider buying a handheld one. They come in handy, especially for studio work, but beginners just won't get much more out of it until they get a good handle on the basics.

[@sparkeyluv]

Great vid. It’s a pity that over 100k in cheap uv filters and presets will be sold this year. Lol What are you thoughts on Hola, and B + W for protection?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thank you! My thoughts are that you don't need anything beyond the lens hood for protection in 99% of the portrait situations you'll find yourself in. For the 1% of the time that you're taking photos inside of a woodchipper or something, well.... still cant see how it provides protection 😂✌️

[@chriswalker6233]

What about uv filters for flate and haze ?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Haze, pro mist filters, etc are all special use types of filters. I don't see why beginners would need something like that, but if there is a specific type of image they are going for that requires it then I don't see anything wrong with it. Just make sure you get a good quality one.

[@beateadriana]

I used to have UV filters, and they used to give me these weird light flares in certain situations. If dust is an issue, maybe it's time to clean out the camera bag, or start using one. I have 20+ year old lenses, I never use UV filters and I've never had an issue. I've worked as a press photographer for years, so my camera equipment has seen a bit of beating. Still, my biggest issue was the useless UV filter...

[@sexysilversurfer]

There is a difference between high quality filters and cheap filters. I had a cheap filter which reduced image quality (ended up in the bin) and a high quality filter.

[@beateadriana]

@@sexysilversurfer I had high quality, paid a fortune for it, and it's currently collecting dust in a drawer somewhere.

[@rudyquezada7088]

Great video , I need one ; but what about a cheaper tripod , Is there that much difference from an expensive one ?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thank you! And yes, there is a major difference. Most of the cheap tripods I've used wear out within a handful of uses. You don't want to trust a $20 tripod to hold your $800+ camera. It's not worth the risk.

[@rudyquezada7088]

Ahhh I see , thank you for the great info 🙏 You saved my camera, almost went with a cheap one 😮 . Keep up the great videos 💯💯

[@LivioSoaresDeMedeiros]

What an honest video. Thanks for sharing.

[@andyf4970]

Light meters. I still have one from the times of analog photography with studio strobes. Now in digital I don't need it, since I can see the results right away.

[@danielpopa6243]

Hello Miguel. I just recently discovered your chanel and started watching your videos. I like what I see so far. Keep up the good work. Concerning this video, I don't really agree 100% with your ideas. Firstly, UV filters or protection filters are useful. I didn't see any significant quality loss in the images I take (and I bought some cheap filters). I buy them because I got the front element of one of my lenses cjipped/scratched. I have no idea how it happened, i always take great care of my gear, but it happened. It is much better to get a cheap filter scratched that the front element of the lens. These filters also protect from dirt, dust, raindrops etc. The second point is with the cheap memory cards. I think it was Tony Northrup in one of his videos who provided some real numbers and explained the fact that all memory cards, even the cheap ones have an extremely low fail rate. Write speed and capacity is all that I look for when I buy one. I don't really buy the absolute cheapest that I can find, but I try not to pay too much. Even if one card should fail an one time, I always shoot redundant to 2 cards and the odds of both cards failing on the same day are astronomycall, I guess you can agree to that.

[@EricSnissaert]

As a beginner, don't buy immediately an expensive (DSLR) camera. Buy an entry camera and study this camera and the basics of photography to start with.

[@Wklambert]

100% agree on UV filters. That's why I have my hood ;) Although, I will say, if I had to recommend an item to not spend money in, it would be cheap macro lenses. I see them all over the place, for like 25 bucks. They're bad. Just a colossal waste of money.

[@stacykivi4531]

Hey, what about retouching academy panel? Any thoughts ?? Thank you :)

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

It's great! I use it myself. Not for beginners though, but a useful tool in the hands of anyone who knows their way around Photoshop. 👍

[@stacykivi4531]

@@MiguelQuilesJr thank you !! Does it works like actions or it has some unique features ?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

It sorta works like an action, but with a better user interface. They have some great tutorials that show you how to use it as well.

[@stevenevosando8840]

Amazon has camera bodies for same price just as bundles why not get the extra bundle ?!? Cheap accessories but hey there extra!! like cleaning kits and cheap filters ..

[@Sportserjeff]

Great tips, I learned about memory cards from the computer geeks at staples. Tried a free trial of the unnamed retouching program, that was enough to turn me off to it. You would have to learn how to use it and I figured out photoshop was easier to learn.

[@phatcrayonz]

I only did one of these things. that was buy a camera bundle. ended up with crap I never used.

[@keibro13]

Actually, I buy metal, screw in lens hoods to protect my lenses. They are usually less bulky than the ones that come with the lens and they are far more robust. It’s a bit like putting steel bars on the front of your car.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Sounds super interesting. Who makes them?

[@keibro13]

They are generic, and can be bought on B&H, eBay or Amazon. You just need to work how wide or narrow they need to be based on the lens’ angle of view. They are usually $5-10.

[@albertw251]

All 5 things you mentioned hit the mark!!

[@DixonLu]

Sometimes on big camera sites, an item bundled with crap is the same as the main item by itself. How does that work financially for them? Both have USA warranty so the bunfled one is not grey market.🤔

[@pauldestocki6356]

Check to see if the bundled one is a refurbished one. I bet you it is. Not grey market but refurbished.

[@richardpcrowe]

Adorama will often bundle items at no additional price. So why not buy a camera + bundle at $900 (USD) rather than the camera alone at $900... I have sometimes been able to use an item or two in a bundle and I give away the items that I don't use... I do have quite a nice small camera bag that was part of a bundle an I have gotten a lot of use out of it...

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

If it's offered at the exact price as the camera would be alone then sure, that's fine. I'm talking about the bundles that are priced higher than the camera and have a bunch of cheapo things to make you think you're getting a great deal. 👍

[@mrwashur1991]

I think another point is buying cheap glass as you continue to progress. Cheap glass can be good for your first lens or two but if you’re starting to get serious then you should start investing in high quality glass. You’ll end up in a rabbit hole where you just spend more money for mediocre build quality and often subpar optics or af (some cheap lenses have great optics) and it’s harder to sell the cheap lenses for a reasonable price. You just ended up spending and extra $200+ per lens once you buy the good glass after a resale. The saying “marry your glass, date your camera” still holds true. There are 50 year old lenses that were top of the line that still destroy new cheap glass. Also remember that sharpness isn’t the only factor in a lens. Just remember the law of diminishing returns too!

[@adrianodanes6570]

presets depends on your photo too! editing it on ur own is better

[@olakunleolafisoye8433]

This is a very great video bro. You couldn't have said it better ! I hope no one comes for your head for saying the truth. Keep up the good work 👏 👍 💪 👌

[@rickjbradbury]

Don't bother with presents at all. Also re retouching. Learn that later... it's over done a lot today. Want to shoot good portraits? it has nothing.. nothing to do with the amount of retouching or some AI program. The key is spending the time to get to know your subject, pay attention to them and what they do during a shoot. Also learn the technical so the gear gets out of the way. Focus on learning the craft and on getting to know the subject and you will have much better portraits. But just as importantly enjoy the learning and the process.

[@Costibuzdugan]

I love you man. I feel a same.now i know!! Tnx

[@waynosfotos]

Do you know anything about the Luminar AI that claims one button editing for pros? I find it hard to believe, but tech is getting pretty clever these days?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

I've tried it and while it's pretty cool to see where these programs are heading, it will never replace the skilled eye of a photographer who knows what they want. Use Luminar when you're comfortable with doing things the proper way, then you can always fix the resulting images when the program goes overboard. 😎👍

[@waynosfotos]

Glad you mentioned the presets, i never actually bought any, as i couldn't understand how they worked. I did some photography when i was younger with film so was a bit sceptical. There is so many variables and how can a LUT work with different colours and exposures. But it is a good money source for Ytubers.

[@drobertsphotography]

Thanks for stating the bare truth. 5 for 5 that I have learned to be dead on.

[@FarHagh]

Perfect; all the 5 are very true :o)

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Thank you!

[@atomikmaster1]

I bought Fro Pack 1 from Jared Polin for the present packs and discovered the same thing. Wonder if I can get a refund?

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

I doubt you'll get one. It's a cheap lesson to learn 😁👍

[@atomikmaster1]

@@MiguelQuilesJr Thank you 👍🏿 Omg you must reading this as I wrote it. Cheers

[@WyndKnight]

Yes..mine didn't look the same either. I bought 1 and that was it.

[@sjenkin88]

I don’t use a screen protector on my smartphones and I’ve never had a scratch problem because glass is tough and doesn’t scratch easier. I’d rather insure my equipment that fiddle around with UV flitters that’ll do nothing to prevent damage from a drop.

[@Elayzee]

You seem to have forgotten the fact that many professionals use a UV filter to protect from scratching the front element of your lens. Not the actual UV protection, but literal scratching of the lens itself.

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Didn't forget at all. That's what the lens hood is for. I haven't used a UV filter in over 20 years and own 30+ lenses at this point, all of which don't have a single scratch.

[@brandoncharleswhite7893]

I've never understood presets, I mean I get it but photography is supposed to be an artform that's unique to each person so why would I want my photos to look like someone else's. I enjoy way more learning lightroom and making my own presets that fit my style. If I see a new style of a preset I like 9 times out of 10 you can learn from that same person how to actually make it and fit it to your photos for free.

[@CanadianArchivist]

I did purchase a Neutral Clear Nikon filter for the front element for a lens. I never liked UV filters. Lightroom etc. I still don’t own the program because of being locked into a subscription. I downloaded a free program from Nikon ( which a paid version is available ) and a free version of Cyberlink photo editor that came bundled with my laptop. When I find I’m limited worth those programs and need something better, I may invest in Lightroom or Affinity Presets- No thanks. How can you learn when you let someone else edit your photos by using their lux or whatever. You are a photographer and a creative person. Learn to edit on your own. Play with sliders and other features. Try things. You’ll learn. The people that sell presets are making money off you. It would be better to invest and purchase new gear. Camera bundles. Forget it. But better quality stuff. Some of these come with a UV filter, a Fluorescent filter for colour shift when shooting in a room with those lights. Your camera and photo editing software can fix that. A blower. Nope. Need the right one. Something like a Rocket Blower or equivalent. They are designed not to blow dust into your lens or sensor when you use it.

[@chriswilko18]

Wish this came out a year ago before I got suckered into presets. FOOOOL that I am. I've used them and I've been largely disappointed for being sweet-talked into buying them.

[@berniemac7777]

I am going to have to disagree about the UV filters. UV filters are great to protect your lens from getting scratched. When your traveling and moving around you can't keep your lens hood on in your bag and sometimes the lens cap can fall off.. After noticing scratches all over my £1000 lens I felt sooo bad. Only if I bought a cheap £1 UV. My advice for people is to buy a UV and keep that thing on if you want to keep your gear in good condition. The extra glass won't effect the image quality, it doesn't weigh much and it's cheap.