An Overnight Van Camping Photography Trip

In this video, I set off in my camper van with high hopes of amazing Landscape Photography conditions. I pack my Fuji X-T3 and new 35mm f1.4 lens and park up in the Lake District for the evening. Unfortunately the weather is not quite what I had hoped for, so I adapt and shoot to the conditions I am given. Enjoy.
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐌𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞:
My Van Tour Video: • Custom Camper Van Conv...
My Instagram: / heatonthomas
My Website: www.thomasheaton.co.uk
My E-Book: geni.us/onlocation
My T-Shirts: thomasheaton.co.uk/shop/t-shi...
𝐆𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴.
My Camer Bag: geni.us/Action-X
Fuji X-T3 (Video & Stills): geni.us/xt-3
12mm f2 Lens (Video): geni.us/12mmf2
35mm Lens (Stills): geni.us/35mmf2
55-200mm Lens (Stills): geni.us/55-200
Tripod: geni.us/ELJmb3x
Tripod Head: geni.us/acratech
Drone: geni.us/MaviAir
𝗠𝘆 𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴: bit.ly/tomsgear
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨
Smooth Guitar 5 - Rickard Age
Smooth Guitar 6 - Rickard Age
Smooth Guitar 8 - Rickard Age
𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝘿𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚: share.epidemicsound.com/t2V7R
𝖣𝗋𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝖥𝗅𝗒𝖾𝗋 𝖨.𝖣: 𝖥𝖫𝖸-𝖡𝟪𝟥𝖩𝖲𝟫

[@pukster88]

I really do respect the effort of putting a camera down the road, driving back, driving past, driving back again to pick it up! effort!!

[@djwilmer7252]

Qasim Syed this is why I love this channel. Plus his voice is so soothing and puts me to sleep. Lol!!

[@TheMoodyPhotographer]

So here is the golden comment 👍🏻 I agree a lot, I feel lazy of doing that on a bike, so how if in the car 👍🏻👍🏻✌🏻✌🏻

[@TheMoodyPhotographer]

@@djwilmer7252 I love his British accent 🤣

[@djwilmer7252]

The moody Photographer 😆

[@waxwingsphoto]

I can't even be bothered to do this when hiking

[@aliasgarcool786]

The cinematography in this video is next level! One of your best and the best photography videos on KZbin! You captured the mood and atmosphere of the place brilliantly. Great storytelling and ofcourse amazing photographs!

[@bryanince341]

I actually love the pano. Much more than the other image.

[@mrkakapa1991]

Same here!!

[@Rid3rHD]

Love what you did with the radio in the beginning, merging that whole intro.. making it feel like a one continues take ....

[@albertlugosi]

Yeah, I was thinking like it must be a British thing to dedicate an entire radio station to weather reports. 😄

[@gally.streetphotography]

Albert Lugosi It all we talk about over here! :)

[@richardsandlantmusic8277]

Agreed, I suspect Tom edited the audio of the weather report separately to fake the muffled sound when he opened and closed the doors. Definite cinematography going on there! And was that also a drone and one of those gimbals on a slider?

[@Fargy86]

Albert Lugosi hahaha we do love our weather reports here, not sure why when we can mostly guarantee it will be raining anyway

[@christophmunch4796]

"Netflix-type things." OK, that's also a way to put it :-D

[@1unisol1]

0:24 With B-Role like that I cant help but remind my self every time: He parked the car, set up the camera, drove away, drove past the camera, stopped the car, got the camera and drove on. That's some serious dedication :D

[@eccentricsmithy2746]

Excessive amount of wasted time too. No one cares about b roll. His videos are more b roll and ramblings then actually photographing.

[@1unisol1]

@@eccentricsmithy2746 I'd have to disagree. I enjoy the slow pace and relaxing vibe.

[@freezefrozen1903]

@@1unisol1 Yea, the cinematography of this video is quite good. Like it.

[@derVlogdahalt]

Eccentric Smithy I'm kind of with you. Seriously, I like his work, but he is more and more exagerated. A video of 18 mins for two photos? Really? I get that impression that he learned that longer videos might be better for his income, but that's a shame. I skipped half of the video because I wanted to see the real scenery of his photos instead of him cooking tea and speaking about his cozy van life.

[@clemfandango9534]

@@derVlogdahalt Completely disagree. KZbin has no shortage of landscape and travel shooters who go a lot more quickly. The whole point of Thomas Heaton is that he is the opposite of that. He absolutely shows the reality of taking pictures when hiking or camping. It IS slow moving. Thats why we do it.

[@mlseawell]

"Landscape photography. The supreme test and often...the supreme disappointment" Ansel Adams

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Truer words have never been spoken 👍

[@TheGotoGeek]

Chris Drzymalski Adams could have been a professional pianist, too, if he’d decided he liked that more than photography.

[@n1k1george]

I consider a camper van as an essential part of the kit for landscape photographers! The ability to stay on location either super late or early, stay warm and dry, eat hot food (and tea) and have a nice comfy bed to sleep in - It is priceless. My VW camper always beckons to me: let's go explore some new places to photograph!

[@nvwolfephotography]

this hit close to home for me. I recently went out shooting with my 8 year old. Shots were ok nothing great but then once i realized conditions were not great i focused on helping my 8 year old with his little fuji instax camera and helping him with composition. :) Sometimes just getting out and shooting is as much fun as when you get that "perfect" shot.

[@KristiGay1973]

So happy to see you shooting Fuji! Also, I really enjoy the storytelling in your videos. I know those extra video clips take so much time, but they really add to the experience for your viewers. Thank you for all the hard work making these videos. They really inspire me to get out and shoot!

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

That's very kind, but I should be thanking you for watching.

[@AlGreenLightThroughGlass]

A good day is when there's that one shot you didn't quite anticipate...

[@MrPhotog4u]

No stress in any of your video is a win in my book. 'You' time in your camper van and hanging out in the woods by a lake and a couple of fun captures, that's got to be a win in your book as well...... Thank you for sharing.

[@TheRealGuywithoutaMustache]

Looks like you had fun, thanks for sharing your experience

[@alexander-1761]

Tom, this is one of my all-time favorite videos from your channel. The time alone in the van is exactly what I long for when I'm home during a normal work week. And watching your quiet process while hiking and finding a composition is so peaceful and pleasant. Thanks for making some of my favorite content on KZbin.

[@pauloamaral668]

Yes Thomas. How lucky you are ! Enjoy it !!!

[@christianohlig9597]

What a great intro with a lovely sound mixing! Love that!

[@markthomas6045]

00:48, Flying the drone AND driving the van, neat trick Thomas!

[@Firstmanphotography]

Lovely video. Respect for that first 90 seconds in particular.

[@ramonizaiah8454]

You all probably dont give a shit but does any of you know a way to log back into an instagram account..? I stupidly forgot my login password. I would love any help you can give me!

[@emanuelisaac342]

@Ramon Izaiah Instablaster ;)

[@ramonizaiah8454]

@Emanuel Isaac I really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and im in the hacking process atm. Takes a while so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@ramonizaiah8454]

@Emanuel Isaac It did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thanks so much you saved my account!

[@emanuelisaac342]

@Ramon Izaiah happy to help =)

[@michaelmccloskey4487]

Thomas, a wise man once told me, "ALL frustration stems from unfulfilled expectations." Now at the age of 76, I find that understanding this truth helps me enjoy all my photography more by controlling my expectations. In this video you seem to have discovered that truth yourself. Well done! Your videos continue to improve, and they were already the best on KZbin. Thank you

[@iworthship]

I appreciate the reporters sound behind the background while closing and opening the van door sounds louder and trimmed. Nice detailed.

[@JamesLanePhoto]

I’ve watched your videos for years and every so often you make one that cuts straight to the heart. I got into Landscape Photography two years ago and learned pretty much everything I know from your videos and just getting out and practicing - I like to think I’m not bad at it now! The reason this video rings so true is that you perfectly capture what it’s like to be a landscape photographer - yes there are lots of KZbin landscape vloggers now, but not one of them captures the essence of this pursuit like you do. And it’s always in videos when you’re on your own - which is what most of us always are in landscape photography. Thanks, Tom. Inspiration as always.

[@Raykenn1]

Thanks for explaining how you see an image. It has helped me tremendously in developing my abilities.

[@ShanDobby]

These are the kinds of videos that made me love your channel. The attention and detail to the actual film making. Thanks Tom.

[@JoanEscala]

Thomas, thanks a lot for sharing your videos. I've found some inspiration in the way you show your work. You're so talented and kind. Thanks again. Cheers!

[@danieldominick5602]

Both pics are great Thomas. Really appreciate the effort you put into the video as well.

[@M31glow]

great advice... persevere. Great video

[@nurishakeri9904]

This video warmed my heart, Thanks for your creative work Thomas!

[@mdandrea2269]

Wow, I want that van! Lovely to watch Thomas’ morning adventure as I pedal away on the recumbent bike. You create such elegant images.

[@rkstrawn]

It's great to see you back home. I get a lot of enjoyment ftom your vids, there motivational, entertaining and relaxing to watch. Thanks Thomas, keep them coming.

[@valpayne2963]

Superb B roll. A lot of effort. Great atmosphere. Excellent video. Thanks!

[@gcarmichael]

Very, very WELL DONE! Some of your best work Thomas!

[@andyroyphotography800]

Nice one always enjoy seeing u out in the Field with the van 👍

[@derekcampbell4413]

Fun video. Loved the pano. Thanks

[@GrizzlyThatHawk]

I might be alone here but I'm happy to see you break out the Fujifilm X-T3!

[@stevemckenzie4731]

Why? Typical Fuji cultist. It's all about the gear ... Sorry, the right gear; i.e. Fuji.

[@jaezryl]

@@stevemckenzie4731 haha

[@criticalmass5873]

You’re not alone. I love the 35mm f2

[@eccentricsmithy2746]

He downgraded from full frame to a crop sensor. He must be hating his job. I would be. Couldnt pay me to shoot with a crop sensor for professional work. Now if Fuji came out with a full frame then I may be interested.

[@eccentricsmithy2746]

@@stevemckenzie4731 he had the right gear before he went to fuji, he down graded.

[@noahtwombly8603]

It’s funny I personally actually prefer the composition of the panoramic image at the end. I find the form that the trees in the center really ground the wide framing of the image. Amazing work!!

[@karlthefirst8690]

Oh man, what a great, peaceful video and lovely image to start my day off with. Great, simple lesson, too. Thanks Tom.

[@insoleandlaces]

Always enjoy your stories.

[@jpstevenson]

Love living vicariously through your videos when I can't get out on adventures for a while myself, just gives me a thirst and excitement for the next trip! Keep up the great work, good stuff Thomas!

[@shura311]

Thanks for sharing, Thomas! Great photographs!

[@ricedumplings3767]

Sometimes I just can't believe that this video was filmed by one person(especially the opening)! Like your videos!!!

[@greggScutum]

The thing that you are doing those movies on your own!!! It's crazy good. The intro with the radio and the ambient sounds it's just perfect!

[@audioadventurer6892]

Woke up at 5am this morning, after about 3 hours sleep, had to drive 30 miles to meet a friend before work and pick up some equipment I had loaned him. Car was packed up with everything because I thought I might go for a shoot later today (that didn't happen,) but I woke to a thick blanket of fog/low cloud over the jungle at home. I would loved to have taken a side trail down to the river before dawn but with a decent drive to a scheduled roadside meeting to make, I didn't have time. Not this morning. But tomorrow is another day and I'm thinking of getting up early again to shoot some of that sweet predawn gloaming B roll, fog or no fog. It's one thing to know you're blessed, it's another to take a moment to truly appreciate it. I think in that lies the secret to true happiness. I'm stoked for you that you're enjoying your van and the time in it.

[@daniel-godin]

Loved that shot of the little waterfalls as you drove by! Also liked the Pano shot. Great work Thomas. Looking forward to more!

[@1spitfirepilot]

Excellent video with some wise points made at the end.

[@gharrop1]

Excellent...I think the videos when conditions are just ordinary are often among your best! They become more philosophical ...Great to see you so cheery too. I agree too with all the constructive comments about all the background work you put in to make it look like you have a film crew!!

[@insaneminddesign]

Great stuff and awesome positive vibe on this video. Also been feeling a bit down with photography but conditions will get better.

[@philiphudson5885]

Your best in a very long time! Well done! Happy to see you finding "happiness" again. You can see it on you... and in your film making. Well done!

[@dihoh2922]

Nothing can beginn or end without a cup of tea. How complex is the b roll. I think it's awesome how much you can say about your approach. Out of the ordinary.

[@AndyHornbyPhotos]

Dude - your B-Roll in you vlogs are incredible - And just getting better and better. How you find the time to record all of it, is beyond me. Truly nice work mate

[@cindyd936]

Love the peacefulness of that image, and thanks for continuing to show us your use of the Fugifilm camera.

[@ericerickson6537]

The Fuji 35 f2 is an incredible lens one of my favorites

[@nfakhgd]

I just love watching your videos. I want your life!

[@earthbeat.photographyearth5562]

i Love the Pano! Thx

[@Jari.Ylioja]

You really have the eye to see. Your amazing videos gives inspiration to people like me.

[@goldenstardust]

Classic Thomas Heaton! Cannot tell you how much I love this style of video!

[@kurt2742]

Yay. The Fuji is back 📷 Great vid 👍

[@borromine]

TH: it is endlessly refreshing and encouraging to hear you say it is usually disappointing. Can’t thank you enough. It actually injects a positive attitude straight into the heart of my generally disappointing practice of landscape work. So again, thanks!

[@mikebroesel]

I love the photo, one of my favorites.

[@HenryTurnerphoto]

Awesome Tom. One of my favourites of yours in a good while. P.S. love the blink-182 sticker 👍🏼! Henry.

[@janmaron2837]

My favourite part of this video is when he is preparing for the night in the van. I love those coziness and preparing. Looking forward to see more of this.

[@aritz_atela]

These are the kind of videos I really enjoying watching in your channel. Not about not getting the shot haha, but just sharing with us the joy of going out, with the van, doing overnight, some scouting, all these things combined.

[@TravelwithJean]

As always I enjoyed the vibes and your energy. Keep it up!

[@danlovaj]

Great video Tom! Anytime out is glorious. Just keep cracking at it!

[@JTan74]

I love the panoramic shot as well as the other shot.

[@abhijitpanda9591]

You're awesome man.. That level of dedication and effort is praiseworthy

[@MichalOlender]

Chasing that perfect image is a cool part of doing photography.

[@jamesurzykowski4918]

I like the pano in black and white! Both photographs were worth the trip. Nice job Thomas!

[@jasonptucker]

the images you capture always blow me away, but the opening montage was equally incredible....especially the audio effect with the radio. i love watching your videos, always something to learn from them. thank you!

[@colinfreear4749]

Nice one Tom, liked both shots, thanks.

[@nadaland40]

I like the end pano. Looks great. i'll be curious to see it with colors too

[@idzardkruizinga]

Love the sound in this video!!

[@soccerjockey]

lovely video! thanks for sharing. About 90% of my recent excursions this winter have resulted in flat light, uninteresting views, and overall disappointment. I constantly have to remind myself that it's worth it just to spend the time in the great outdoors! And if I walk away with a nice image, it's just the icing on the cake.

[@jimjames4875]

Beautiful work. Intro was great and you seem in good spirits!

[@Rwm18]

Good stuff Thomas. Really enjoyed this vlog.

[@CultureAgent]

Happy new lens, loved the shot you turned round for; can see why, beautifully captured. The b&w conversion really suited that scene in the pano with the coniferous contrasts.

[@adamcoughtrey5851]

Love that little lens.....as you say it's super sharp and is always with me when I shoot..Great shot

[@markmcmullan3351]

That first image is so good , back to form Tom. Your videos at home are always the best for me you have a connection with the place.

[@cgriggsiv]

As always beautiful photography

[@CincyMike]

Great stuff Thomas!

[@thereedsy]

Great video, keep up the amazing work

[@realBobToms]

Cool video produced by cool planning, effort, editing and result. Well done Thomas.

[@Uncle-Duncan-Shack]

It's like watching a pro documentary shot by a herd of people following a script, but no. Just one man who has it down. Nice one, the images are both pleasing. Regards, Duncan

[@Burrator]

This is next level theaton. Great storytelling. Top video. Allround honesty. Reason you’re #1 landscape KZbin’s imho

[@allanseppa9394]

I really like the pano !

[@Chris391971]

Living the dream!! Well done

[@juanpabloalonso4541]

Great video Heaton. Like it

[@detectingdave]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video Thomas, I am also passionate about photography, I also own a motorhome, so it was double enjoyment for me. First time I have watched one of your videos, looking forward to seeing some more. Regards, Dave.

[@capt1089]

I believe your camper van videos are some of my favorite. Cheers!

[@stubones]

14:30 that is a lovely image. Very subtle.

[@mauistevebear]

Now I want the 35f/2! It was like you said, crazy sharp! and at 5.6 (f8 on FF) it was perfect! Thanks, Mr. Heaton for continuing use of my beloved X-T3!

[@andyjamesmciver]

This has been refreshing to watch... the reality and honesty shared in this video (along with that intro scene)!!

[@amaimani]

Really nice shot of the trees as you said,, eye-catching.Weather is no excuse for us to go and shoot Landscapes. BW is a beauty too

[@jtbuilds1]

I think the pano looks great 👍👍

[@keithsandercock1412]

Couldn't help but notice the contrast between your lovely van conversion and Nick Page's leaky POS.

[@gerardmurphy3337]

Love the camper van 😱👌

[@AntonioPMFerreira]

Seeing you cooking and eating it makes all the experience more emersive and...cozy? I don’t know but seeing you in van is very satisfiying.

[@chriss2761]

Brilliant intro Tom, your video editing is outstanding another great video, even though there was no fog your trip was worth it those 2 images are stunning 👌👍

[@scotty4418]

Some nice touches in the B-roll with the slider and the drone. All in all a slick production and although the conditions did quite materialise as you hoped, still a good opportunity to be out in the van and enjoy the surroundings

[@carlitodcreative]

I love your stuff buddy!

[@BG-og3vf]

The effort on this video is amazing wow! Absolutely stunned with your filmmaking!