Camera Reviews Need to Change...

Sharing my thoughts on the role KZbinrs play in the marketing of a camera release.
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Table of Contents:
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0:00 - The Why
0:55 - My Post
2:15 - Why Now?
2:51 - Reviewer Life Cycle
4:17 - Press Trips
7:30 - Embargoes
8:16 - Being First
11:21 - Negative Reviews
12:20 - Lumix
15:01 - Canon
15:34 - Fujifilm
16:57 - Nikon
17:46 - Sony
18:55 - Advice to Brands
19:43 - Lumix Frustration
24:10 - Advice to Creators
25:20 - Final Thoughts
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[@geraldundone]

In case there was any confusion, I am in no way trying to vilify the creators who went to Japan. Many of them are my friends, try really hard, and make interesting & compelling content. My issue is with the system, not individual creators. Please don't go ripping on them in their comments. I didn't make this video to tear down other KZbinrs or divide us. Thanks. 🤓🙏

[@androidpopjr]

I don’t know Gerald, I’m seeing a lot of people mobbing on creators and Lumix now. You talk about the influence KZbin creators have in your video and now your influence has kind of backfired on to others. You have power in your position and you definitely chose to use it.

[@CanditoTrainingHQ]

It's too late. You made them all look like sellouts and now they're getting negative comments. I've already seen a handful of unsubscribe comments on a few channels I follow. I like your channel Gerald, but you cant be surprised at that reaction right? You threw your weight around, and this is the consequence. I think the part of your video you should've edited out is when you described how Lumix must assume other creators will follow orders. I'd assume you wouldnt like the S9 because it isnt made for you given your technical rigor, while some others like lifestyle products. Not necessarily that they're more obedient.

[@controllverse4013]

You explained it yourself - people have different standards for cameras. For someone who vlogs in short bursts and doesn't care about a record limit, they don't really need to be watching Gerald Undone style overheating torture tests. Why would Panasonic buy you an expensive plane ticket or send you the camera so you can clickbait its "shortcomings" for views? That would be bad business. It's ONLY business after all. Nothing more, and nothing less. No emotion, just business. So they invite creators with an audience who will get the most value out of a camera with these features. The s9 is not for YOUR audience. That's it bro. You explained it yourself.

[@DarkPa1adin]

​@@controllverse4013 Any camera is for his audience. He tests the dynamic range. He is the most technical reviewer. Anyone serious about any camera will watch Mr Undone

[@Raist3db]

I have no problems calling out what happens with influencers trying to be overly positive about a product due to an inherent conflict of interest. Critical thinking is in short supply, as well as "being real." I think the best ambassadors / influencers are those that showcase a new product features without putting other competitors down, and show real world use cases, without being overly gushing positive about the product they got paid to travel to check out. Also helpful- if they are comparing a "successor model" - show what exactly is new, improved, different. This can be done in straightforward ways without the super hype koolaidTM. The worst are the ones that repeat company claims without checking and hype it up like the best thing ever. Or even test a new product in scenarios that are not really stressing it and claim that it does very well in that area. Remember the OM Systems OM-1 unveil? 2 stops better DR/ISO? There were was even an ambassador mis-using photontophotos to "prove it." That was pretty incorrect. I did see a KZbin that has a channel on cheap used old cameras, all of a sudden showing the S9 in quite a positive light- an outlier in his channel given this is a brand new (not even released) model. What I do have to chuckle at is all the people that think an ambassador/influencer early access "review" is a review, but then that's why it works. These are all inherent conflict of interest even with the best of intentions- because of human psychology- it's only on the natural side of things to be overly positive and if you get more freebies, you have the potential to slide into a real sellout. And the companies of course know this. Don't apologize for this. I think it's good to keep a certain perspective when looking at these videos, and it sure feels a bit weird. This doesn't go only for Panasonic, but for all companies/brands.

[@chrisbrockhurst]

He’s not lying, he finds a good couch and sets up camp at the Sony events, witnessed it numerous times 😂 He’s as good at sitting as he is at camera reviews.

[@LeeZavitz]

Truth

[@Kobratero]

@@strippedlistwhat’s your point

[@brandsandempires]

@@strippedlist He spends time fiddling in the menus and testing the limits so the photographers and videographers don't have to. Symbiosis.

[@LimaVideoProductions]

​@@strippedlist Gerald's videos are reviews, not a portfolio. If you want to learn how a machine works, you ask an engineer, not a pilot.

[@nomadikmind3979]

@@strippedlist thats not his deal......hes a tech guy, a tool guy, like an armorer or something. Im kind of the same way, just admiring and finding the best camera gear is often far more fun than using the gear. And thats ok, I would bet that the vast majority of camera engineers are pretty average photographers, if even that

[@curtisjudd]

Could not agree more on your points here. And I enjoy the passion/tirade. If it helps, this also applies to audio brands. ZOOM no longer sends me products (for loan or for free) to make reviews because they lent me the Podtrak P4 for review and I said in my review that it had a noisy headphone amp. They told me to take the review down. So instead, I bought the recorder and left the video up. They haven't talked to me since (that was in 2020). But what I really wanted to say is that your new lighting design is 🔥 which makes your skin tones so much better (and more like you actually look in real life).

[@drhito]

Always good to get your insight, Curtis. Thanks for sharing.

[@georgerady9706]

I’m just counting down; 3, 2, 1 - waiting on KZbin CENSORING, SHADOW BANNING, DEMONITIZING and striking videos because of “hate speech” because - as little crumbs that content creators get - KZbin and Googlish are making $$$ on these “sales” channels… we are just waiting for the receipts! 🤨

[@blackbugmedia]

I was waiting for your review on H6 Essential, Curtis. Thanks for sharing your story. I will now think twice about the brand.

[@curtisjudd]

@@blackbugmedia They still have some good products, despite what their marketing people in Japan do or say. The issue was with the marketing bosses in Japan, not at ZOOM USA. My contact at ZOOM USA was the one who probably got in trouble for not "managing" me more carefully. He's a great guy and I felt bad for him. Their F3, F6, and F8 recorders are very good. Their H series recorders are mediocre and ok for beginners, but not very robust for serious filmmaking or content creation.

[@blackbugmedia]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for the clarification. I actually wanted a H-series for the purpose of plugging into DJ’s mixer at live music events. (And some occasional amateur filmmaking) I would’ve been ok with some noise, considering its price. I just wanted to see how bad/good it is. I’m still considering Tascam X8, on which I watched your review. Thanks for that.

[@artphototech]

I think that's why I watch super small channels that buy the shit with their own money.

[@EdwardMartinsPhotography]

I buy the shit with my own money that I think I might want to actually use and my channel is small, but I take a lot of shit for "switching" all the time. I guess if I got it for free and and I had 500K subs it would be all right?

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

The problem with many small channels is that they are often fanboyish and brand-loyal even without having any access. So their reviews are imho often just as skewed towards certain brands and products as bigger channels who get paid. I believe the best solution is to watch really big channels who are beyond wanting early access and don't really care about it.

[@DarrenMostyn]

HUGE RESPECT! I would not compromise the trust of my audience ever for any brand review on my channel - no price! Respect. Darren

[@KhrisDCForever]

i love your colour grading videos

[@DarrenMostyn]

@@KhrisDCForever Thank you, wish you all the best, darren

[@FlyingLapMedia]

Respect. I think it would only really take a few well known creators to establish a new ethos. These companies apply pressure to creators because they know they're relying on the content to plug their paying sponsors. E.g. if major creators draw a line in the sand, it could enact change.

[@benjhaisch]

let’s get undone

[@benjhaisch]

Definitely going to make an “KZbin ethics” style video soon.

[@Malick333]

@@benjhaisch do please. I watch your stuff cause you have been super helpful Setting expectations on gear and helped me NOT waste my money. 😘

[@richarddmendoza]

@benjhaisch is my super hero and I purchased a 907x because of him ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@rmrpictures1]

Kudos to you! I watched your video and felt like you were one of the few people who was completely transparent about the camera and didn't get on the hype train like many of the other reviewers.

[@benjhaisch]

@@rmrpictures1 hey thanks. It’s definitely one of the reasons that I got my samples while there but recorded my actual video back in my studio instead. Wanted to have some distance from it all.

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

The key for me is to have views so low that the companies never notice me. Flawless plan. 😂 Seriously, this video is really helpful.

[@robmcd]

I’m glad Sony gave you a five minute break while they had a cigarette in a towel; Mark- your reviews are awesome and genuine. Have no fear.

[@JoATTech]

It's not my strategy, cause I would like to have a lot of views, but so far this is my reality :D. I would probably reject most of the proposals anyway. Or do 1 review and been never contacted again :D. The only camera I would probably review positively is S5IIX. I really like that camera, but switching to L-mount from e-mount is to expensive.

[@landonbailey]

Imagine I had to review a guitar with another guitar. Is that how it feels reviewing a camera?

[@Flynn58]

I watch both of your reviews and they influenced me on buying my first camera a week ago, so you're getting my views at least! Cheers from Toronto!

[@GregThurtle]

love your videos @mark

[@chouandsherrie]

I was scratching my head with so many reviewers being overly subtle about S9 omissions like no hot shoe , shutter or and the f8 lens. This explains a lot

[@samuelsulaiman]

It's trash

[@lawfulmasses]

And no autofocus on the pancake lens???? How can they overlook autofocus on a new lens in 2024???

[@russbo97]

@@lawfulmasses Do you even need af on a 28mm lens at f/8? Nope-

[@jozosaravanja1626]

​@@russbo97you don't need 28mm that starts with f8.

[@hellounclesim]

I feel like a lot of the distrust of gear reviews started around the time of the DJI Mic 2 release when almost every creator was telling us it how crispy clear it sounded, even when our ears were telling us otherwise. And then they had to make videos about "Oh, we forgot to turn off the low cut. Now it sounds great right? Almost as good as Rode? Maybe?" but our ears were telling us - no, it still sounds the same.

[@JasonMorrisphotocinema]

I got my popcorn 😅

[@tsizzle]

I got my pho queue pho 🍜

[@darinmurano]

riveting 🤤

[@Bo_Hazem]

That's why you're not invited to Japan, lol. I know you won't go easy on that camera.

[@JimiMiki]

I got my sushi.

[@Bo_Hazem]

@@strippedlist But his nerd approach to cameras is crucial to all professionals and amateurs. He's a unique camera enthusiast that adds so much to the table just like CineD.

[@SavageAppOfficial]

Back when we shot the launch video for one of these companies they asked that my wife not be included in the videos because "certain countries will get upset". I included her anyways (last minute addition...oops) and they left us off of the NAB rollout despite everyone in the department saying it was the best launch video they had seen for their cameras. So...you're not wrong. It exists.

[@samuel_d]

What about your wife has the potential to upset nation states? That’s a superpower.

[@SavageAppOfficial]

@@samuel_d I took it as "try to not feature a woman in the video too much" (wink wink)

[@samuel_d]

​@@SavageAppOfficial Ah. Joking aside, that’s not cool. Panasonic isn’t covering itself in glory here. I have no dog in this fight but am happy to see Sony being rewarded for doing the right thing.

[@SavageAppOfficial]

@@samuel_d It definitely caught us off guard. I couldn’t believe they kept our video out of the NAB showcase.

[@emeraldisland2023]

All of this stuff has made me reconsider what Panasonic are at. Their ‘social cleansing’ behaviour here shows an ugly mindset.

[@BenBalser]

I've been an Apple cert'd master trainer for their pro apps, back in the legacy Final Cut Pro days. I produced training videos, related product updates, reviews on FCPX updates, etc. But once I began questioning the incompleteness of FCPX after a about two years, I got cut off from being a beta testers for Apple, my inside contact with Apple who I was friends with for years just up and stopped responding to me and vanished. It all stopped. I've also noticed Apple is ver seriously doing some heavy censoring of the posts in their FCPX user forum. It's just corporate greed refusing to face truthful facts. This has been American corporate culture my entire life. Glad you did this video. I could be any influencer talking about the corporations in any industry, it all rings sadly true. Thank you for being honest. I'll be subscribing to you now, because of HONESTY (hint, hint, corporations).

[@OfTwoLands]

I think the main issue on YT are people reviewing gear that they actually don't need or use and basically change brands and products every week just for clicks and views. Anyone reviewing products (especially cameras) should have a real use for it and know how to film first. Personally for example I only review stuff I either need for a specific project or that would complement my kit in a genuine way for my documentary work. I say no to 95% of requests I get and I always make sure to say what I like but also what I don't like and what doesn't work, regardless of the company or product.

[@MarioCastillion]

Exactly!!!!

[@MikeKeller]

"You don't review that brand anymore." I guess it's great that some folks review everything, but that's really only useful for the viewers that haven't dedicated themselves to a brand. I'm not really gonna watch a video about a camera brand I'm not monitoring. I don't know why anyone would, unless they're looking to switch. But I'd really rather watch a review by someone that's invested in the brand than someone just reviewing to make another review video.

[@lindsaywebb1904]

I don't think you can expect professional reviewers of any range of products to have an ongoing use for every product. If you ask someone who uses X day in day out to review X, you will only receive a users perspective, not the view from someone who can place X within the broader contextual landscape in which it is situated

[@OfTwoLands]

@@lindsaywebb1904 I think you need this when people review cameras against cameras or lenses against lenses. I personally value opinions from people that have extensive knowledge of one system or brand other another because it shows real case scenarios.

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

They were not told in advance what the product was going to be. But the rumors did suggest it would be a compact camera, perhaps a full frame. We will never know if they had known it would have no EVF and no flash capability if they would have still gone.

[@alphapyro360]

As a full time video producer, I tend to gravitate to the videos on KZbin where the person reviewing the product has worked with it for a while in multiple scenarios and can touch on the positives and the negatives equally. Those videos are much more helpful to pick the right camera(or other gear) to rent, which I then use in multiple real world scenarios before making a purchase. Purchasing a new product that I will use for multiple years before upgrading again takes research, thought, and testing so I do not waste money on something that does not perform in the way I need. Thank you for the content that you produce.

[@Robbiebrito]

Yeah me too, the best “reviews” are the ones like 1 year with camera X or Z. Thats when they really speak the truth, reviews on schedule when company give it too you for a short period of time will never give you a deep knowledge too “influence” people too get it. Plus i never bought anything on lunch like that there is no camera or other gear that i would get that fast.

[@mattih]

I always said no to camera events cause I thought they were pretty lame and then I went to one and I dont think ill ever go again (like you said only good thing about them is hanging out with friends). unless its in maui then im going everytime. i like the honesty Gerald.

[@lil-hawk3]

@mattih did you quit KZbin?

[@ghostgums]

You’d review a camera after using it for 90 minutes dude

[@ottokraut]

You were the least credible of the whole bunch, until you quitted… or so we were told…

[@Lu-sj6ni]

bruh, just stay in your corner. you're only in the youtube space because you're friends with Peter. you were part of this problem, too.

[@Mike-vr7mb]

Come back bro!!!! 😢

[@chrisharris_arizona]

The irony is that Panasonic should pay Gerald for this video as I now know more about the S9 than I care to from all the videos responding to this video.

[@poldivina7873]

Gerald just said: “MotherF*** the Big Three, it’s just Big Me. “ 😂😂😂

[@renouncreation]

BUM😭

[@paolojasonarao1349]

Yoooooo!!! 😂

[@kevinokai]

IT'S UP! 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@withoutpassid]

C'mon, Panasonic and Fuji are not even in top 3. And he praised Nikon and Sony which are 2 of the big 3. Where did he say 🖕 to big 3?

[@paolojasonarao1349]

@@withoutpassid I think it's a reference to a song featuring Kendrick "Like that"

[@DaveMcKeegan]

Back when I was reviewing camera gear, I never managed to get in with any of the main brands, but many of the lower end brands that I did deal with seemed to be more than happy to receive criticism, as long as it was fair and constructive, they kept coming back. Kind of seems like big KZbin channels are obviously going to prioritise the big brand stuff because that's what pulls in the views, but the big brands are happy to play the market and drive the hype, where as the smaller brands have a genuine interest in addressing feedback - It would definitely be a wake up call to some of the big brands if youtubers stopped putting videos out straight away and instead did a more in-depth test - brands would have to start to listening to feedback or be left with no marketing power

[@classic.cameras]

Still remember your video where you used a telephoto lens and made a huge image by stitching like a hundred photos together. You were good man.

[@shmuelaryehkoltov241]

I miss your gear reviews, but I do love your new videos as well, still entertaining and I always learn something from them. Just sad that we still have to discuss whether we live on a globe or flat earth.

[@tubularificationed]

It made me think why you had exchanged your subject domain 100% with convincing flat earthers about the globe. The reason probably isn't, that you want your funeral eulogy praise you as "he had served mankind by spending half of his life with arguing against flat earthers on KZbin" 😉 The actual reason must be more profane, i.e. more subs and more views, than with just photography? This probably indicates how much the system photography enthusiast market has shrunk by now.

[@greysuit17]

Unfortunately he lost followers for switching from camera to nonsense arguing

[@restlake]

the irony of the Panasonic thing is you historically featured so much content from them and absolutely sold me on the S5 😂

[@GEXAR]

This is a really cool camera, I didn’t think that it would become my favorite when I bought it😄

[@giancarloarrobarodriguez5291]

The S5II X is hell of a camera, same specs (in some sorts more) than a A74 but with $500 less.

[@generalwhine5350]

Same... And I still love my S5

[@nextsibling]

I will have huge respect for the first KZbin 'reviewer' who uses a camera for a year and produces some meaningful and worthwhile work with it and then publishes their review.

[@SamuelStreetlife]

Gerald you are the man. Please never change. If our fellow creators can't take a bit of criticism then that's on them honestly. You go on a press event and become a marketing tool for a new product then you have to expect to be criticized for it. It's just a stupid camera anyways and they will do just fine moving on and / or hopefully use this moment to reflect and think about how they (we) have helped build this flawed system. Us creators can easily become disconnected with not only ourselves but also how the audience perceives us. That's why a commentary like this can be a helpful reality check. Who would have thought that "You"Tube works the best when you are true to yourself and not compromise to please corporations for a bit of vanity and monetary gain? Do sponsorships and brand deals if you need to (or want to), totally fine. But do not pretend you are not benefiting from the privileges you are receiving. Almost every S9 review had a sponsor in them so they got their paycheck. Just own it and grow some thick skin.

[@LeeZavitz]

When Fuji switched things up on us and started sending review units after embargo I kind of thought it was a weird move. I think this only applied to us in Canada. But, honestly didn’t really impact views being a few weeks late. And since we got it later we can actually open and view the raw files which I think is important to include in a review. I also I agree with you on Sony. Probably the best camera brand I’ve dealt with. You don’t have to worry about saying anything negative and they are always there to listen and improve which is a huge reason to like them not only as a company but also the products they make. I might make my own video off this topic because there’s a few things I’d like to add .

[@geraldundone]

I'd love to watch it, Lee.

[@valentinavee]

You should! I’d like to hear your thoughts.

[@josepuente8852]

I’ll be tuning in 💪

[@BrendanEvan]

Love your stuff Lee

[@dan.allen.digital]

Fuji takes so long to ship a new product anyways, I would rather pre-order it on release day and wait for post-embargo videos to do a thorough test on a production unit so I can decide if I want to cancel my pre-order.

[@drewloewen6079]

Behold: Geraldgate. I'm here for it. Transparency makes everything and everyone better.

[@andyp5693]

Northrups watch this video: "BREAKING NEWS...100mp SONY CURVED SENSOR COMING SOON" Chris & Jordan watch this video: Make another 20min review about a nothing camera without actually saying anything: "This camera has a screen, it has a lens mount and fits batteries which is amazing and super useful for content creators on the go" Jared Polin: benchmarks everything to the autofocus in sports cameras since he only knows how to shoot sports. All basically useless. Amazon customer reviews are much better which is a sad state of affairs.

[@evrythingis1]

Yeah, except this was all already completely transparent before the manchild threw a tantrum about not being invited for a free trip.

[@SWATxPolicy]

@@evrythingis1I disagree. I had no insight into how this went down until this video, and I watch a lot of camera content.

[@robiulahmed]

A bit hypocritical, though. It can be summarised like this, “KZbinrs shouldn’t go to these events. I got banned from an event, how dare they?!”.

[@nickguzman1734]

​@robiulahmed yeah the video came across as salty rather than genuine. Regardless, anyone who watches Camera Conspiracies knew this was all going on behind the scenes. Interesting that they invited him though. Much more critical than gerald

[@VladimirKostek]

This is a great video, i just started making some camera content so it's good to know the behind the scenes stuff. This is exactly why i focus on long term reviews, i just always found it more useful when shopping around

[@thenextlayer]

Wow. I'm in the 3D printing space, and this spoke to my SOUL man. The "certain companies are punitive" - big time. Respecting brands who don't try to get me to filter... totally. Everything you said was spot on.

[@duncanmoffat]

What annoys me is when reviewers say "we can't show you the RAWs because this is still pre-production" or "This feature may improve with production firmware". If the camera is not ready, do not send it to reviewers. Reviewers should refuse to review products if the manufacturer will not let them do a complete review.

[@kunstspielklavier185]

That‘s why I always liked it, when people differentiate between a preview and a review.

[@VoltLover00]

They're not reviewers, they're shills

[@milesmccall2301]

This is totally wrong. Giving you as much info as early as possible is a good thing. As long as they are clear as to what data they don't have, and preferably post a full review later, there's no issue.

[@livesongs82]

Just tag Jared polin why don't cha 🤣

[@molybdnum]

It's the double-edged sword of a desync between hardware/software. Firmware update potential over the life of a camera vs. when is it "complete." IMO, buy for the features it has NOW, not future promises - which reviewers are pretty good about caveating. What's not so great is that when/if those updates happen down the line they usually aren't a big enough headline to get a new wave of videos and you can't revise a youtube video to add in new context, so it's harder to follow up as a consumer and see if the possible pre-production hiccups actually got addressed.

[@AndrewVanBeekOttawa]

KZbin has become an embarrassment where gear “reviews” are concerned. I only learn from what the reviewers won’t talk about now rather than the exact same talking points as the other “reviewers”. I’m glad that light is being shone on this issue.

[@harrisheller]

I’m gonna be honest, I didn’t expect you to be able to hit this hard without sounding bitter. I’m sitting over here taking notes lol. I don’t think this video could have been made any better. We need these kinds of videos in order to course correct, hopefully both from brands and creators. Good work and god speed homie.

[@AoyagiAichou]

What do you mean "without sounding bitter"? Have you watched the video?

[@Democratiser]

Ok, the only point I’d add here is that some of the reviews are very entertaining. Kai and Lok, Jordan and Chris, etc: their videos are often very entertaining as much as they might be informative. If I want the bare, deep, truth I’ll watch you or Richard Wong and others. Most of the time I will watch Kasey first to see what the heck the Board was thinking!

[@ErrorTH]

Well at least Kai dedictaed a whole video to roasting their pancake lens.

[@nathanvrvrt]

His review of the s9 wasn't positive either 😂

[@VoltLover00]

Mad respect for that. That lens is a waste of plastic

[@classic.cameras]

Kai doesn't usually do embargos either. Even if he does, he lists it at a later time and not at 12 am Tokyo time.

[@TimGalloVids]

i think he was the only one who said: I dont think anyone would buy it :) at some podcast

[@MrJed_s]

@@VoltLover00 Yep. At least they didn't waste too much glass

[@TheHybridShooter]

A sellout hobby KZbinr who was in Osaka here: I was at both 2022 Tokyo Lumix event and 2024 Osaka event. Back when the S5 II was released, I was the only one to say that the A7 IV IBIS with active mode is actually better in some situations (that is no longer the case). There was a ton of videos showing how good is the S5 II IBIS at 24+ mm, but no videos revealing that there is warping at ultra-wide angles. I was accused of being Sony fanboy, paid by Sony etc. There was a lot of drama on rumor sites. Then I made a separate video showing side-by-side samples in many scenarios that couldn't be disputed. Panasonic has called me to ask whether I have updated FW in the camera, I said that I have. Then they said that my testing is representative and everything is OK. I got invited to London event for S5 II X and Osaka event for the S9. Nobody from Panasonic has never said anything bad about any of my criticism, including my video about leaving Panasonic's M43 system and S5 review where I said pretty bad things about the AF. I have never felt pressured by Panasonic, Fujifilm or Sony. Nikon would prefer I just read their press release, I am probably banned from reviewing Canon cameras. Also worth mentioning is that the is a ton of pressure from the toxic part of photography community to criticize everything. I don't care about that either, if I think that a widely criticized camera, such as the S9 or even X100VI is actually good, I will just say it... I guess that "being at an event shaming" makes being there as risky as not being there from the YT success perspective :)

[@Mamotreco]

Well said

[@AoyagiAichou]

Just a quick note - I do believe the discussion / drama / storm in a tea cup was about stabilisation in general, not just ultrawide. Feels like a decade ago though. I don't think anyone could've denied corner wobbling introduced by Panasonic's strong IBIS (something Sony is not burdened with). As you say Lumix got their act together and made their e-stabe actually useful.

[@USGrant21st]

There is no point in pointing fingers. First, we don't really know. Second, it doesn't matter. What is important is that for companies KZbin "reviews" is an extension of their marketing campaign. And marketing is not about objectivity, it's about selling the product. As long as the companies are involved in that process that means "selling" is working.

[@TheHybridShooter]

@@AoyagiAichou The issue was there there was a lot of videos showing walking at 35+mm. I have no idea why. The wobbling wasn't visible in those videos at all. I have done the testing at 20mm, because that seemed more logical to me. Sony A7 IV performed better in that test with Active mode, due to the warping on the S5 II, but nobody believed me, because they have seen amazing performance at 35+mm.

[@TheHybridShooter]

@@USGrant21st It is much more complicated than that. Objectivity and "selling the product" don't have to be contradicting elements. As I wrote, companies are far from being the only subject involved. There also your viewers, other companies, pressure to criticize everything and so...If you are just a part of marketing, you won't make it very far.

[@BK42Cycles]

You're absolutely right Gerald, and as you mentioned, it doesn't happen only in the "cameras" world! Another growing issue I frequently encounter is brands asking us not to disclose how we received the goods, or at least not to mention that the specific video is sponsored in any way!

[@AbroadinJapan]

A STRANGE but POWERFUL indictment of camera press trips. I’m going to take a hammer to my GH5 amidst my disappointment at Lumix.

[@space1101]

Nooooooooo. Not the camera that started your entire KZbin career. But buy a S5 MarkII or GH6 if you ever need a replacement.

[@mashewplz]

It's Mr Affable himself!!!

[@imabigsandwich1292]

Do u still rocking the Sony a1?

[@MisterMayhem17]

Can you just send it to me Chris. I broke mine at an event 😭

[@Hrumpy]

Don’t worry. The camera will be fine

[@coreymagz3145]

The most insane thing about this is that it just doesn't apply to cameras and gear, it applies to video games, movies, TV shows, apple products, etc. It's an entire aspect of tech/media/publicity that absolutely needs a systematic change from the ground up and this video is incredible, so thank you.

[@garfieldmtify]

looks like KZbin been had going deep down that rabbit hole. ...maybe now things will start to change for the better. Time will tell.

[@letsmap]

Right? Isn’t that exactly what a prescreening for a feature film is like? Hype up the film guys and sit them in a room with the director and main actors? Like who isn’t gonna get excited for that kind of experience?

[@generalwhine5350]

Yep, snazzy labs has made similar videos about Apple not liking criticism either. It is the capitalist world we live in, one wrong word and your business could be in tatters, so they all do this horrendous nonsense Gerald mentions.

[@matthewcreelman1347]

The one that touches on my interests is running shoes. I can only think of two major KZbinr who do shoe reviews who buy 100% of the shoes they review.

[@dannywinget]

This is a great video for all of us to hear. New creators and seasoned creators go through the same fears and you are right we should change the way we view ourselves and what we stand for in our category.

[@christopherbgriffith]

I love this brutal honesty, and it’s why I trust Gerald’s reviews and opinion pieces. Regarding the feedback loop between creators and brands, I would say my biggest pet peeve has been companies making design decisions based primarily on criticisms from KZbinrs. An example is the tilt vs fully articulating screen. As someone who primarily does photography and only occasionally shoots a little video, I would prefer a tilt screen always. But I’ve seen YT reviewers complain about an otherwise great camera because it doesn’t have a fully articulating screen - a specific need for a video creator. I think this creates an outsized megaphone for the preferences of people making videos. I love my Nikon Zf - it might be my favorite vintage style camera ever, but the fully articulated screen drives me batshit crazy when trying to shoot low angles. I can get the shot faster with one of my Fuji cameras because I’m not futzing with the screen. The Zf is clearly meant to be photo-centric - the manual control dials are a pain for video, and it’s a replacement for the Df, a photo-centric DSLR. So why did Nikon go with a video-centric screen design over the tilt of the Z6/7? I think it’s because of YT reviewers having an outsized voice at the table. I think this is another side effect of what is a not great system for reviewing gear.

[@alistairlambert3275]

You've echoed how I feel about these recent reviews for the S9. Well done for taking a stand on this.

[@robmcd]

The S9 is an awesome camera for $499

[@JoATTech]

@@robmcd 😅😅🤣🤣🤣 Funny thing - it's $1900 in my country ...

[@mathish1477]

2500 in mine ​@@JoATTech

[@alistairlambert3275]

@@robmcdI’ll draw my own conclusions after all the hype when I have it in my hands.

[@mailjabber]

It started with Philip Bloom and not showing how bad the Canon 5Dmkii line skipping was. I decided to never listen to what he thinks again. Gerald is totally on point here. Bravo! The real sin here is that the brands are trying to get free advertising AND influence the content of that free advertising. Gerald is right. This has got to end.

[@IanCresswell]

To be honest, I don't think camera manufacturers are interested in "reviews" from KZbinrs and influencers. What they are looking for is marketing. You get to make a video about a new product that gets you views and thus revenue. They get free-ish marketing for their product. That's how the influencer economy works. Thorough reviews are certainly an available genre, but I seriously doubt camera manufacturers are particularly interested in yours or anyone else's reviews. Not because they are evil, but because it likely doesn't mean as much to their R+D teams as you might think. Product design is based off of extensive market studies, not as much on individual feedback as we'd all like to think. They make a product they think will sell and make money, not necessarily the product they think ticks the most boxes for the most highly regarded reviewers.

[@Malick333]

EXACTLY. it’s really this simple.

[@JoATTech]

100% agree ... unfortunately that's the sad truth.

[@parshua]

They won't get it if they keep disrespecting the reviewers. What's a reviewer good for if the viewers think they are just a shill?

[@GarrettLucasWV]

While there's a lot of truth in what you're saying about having free marketing, I think any company is interested in a KZbinr's review if it's not a good review and if that KZbinr has a significant audience. Look what happened recently with MKBHD and that AI pin that he panned. That review hit the company hard and you can't convince me they didn't care about that review. But you're right about the fact that they want the free marketing and they're going to cherry-pick who they give access to get the coverage they want. Apple did that for years with one writer that always had access. I think some KZbinrs should decided on whether they want to be PR folks or not. It's okay if they do. I like reading and watching about new products like anyone else. But there's plenty of room for the real reporters of the truth that bring true value to their audiences. It might not be as glamourous as getting chauffeured around in Tokyo or Stockholm by big brands, but if their audience is large enough, they'll definitely get the brand's attention.

[@busydadscooking001]

Same as gear review websites before youtube was a thing, right? Unbiased review sites are those that have the scale to buy their own stuff and test it all independently. Consumer reports etc. (Not a good site for camera reviews btw, where the deep details matter).

[@Jorge-Perez]

It’s Interesting to hear your perspective on this. I’m a small KZbinr, and just like you said, I review older cameras and just enjoy the experience and the creative process. But this video makes it clear that different stages of the content creation game introduce different problems/barriers to the creative process, thanks for shining a light on it. Keep up the great work man, cheers from Calgary.

[@RawloftheDead]

I come to your channel because i know how much information you are providing, and you are always on point. I can count on you breaking down every spec of any product and it's much appreciated

[@JeffGeerling]

This is a problem in tech too-though I've found disclosure problems to be even more rampant there.

[@RainboTornado]

I like that Sony wants the feedback. I like that Fuji stopped doing beta FW reviews (No excuses/caveats to hide behind). Gerald - I’m stingy as F**k, but this got my wallet on the table. Well said.

[@FloydTaylor]

Gerald probs needs a pareon that will fund purchase of cameras, then his incentives align with viewers, not camera companies. Thanks for leading theway tornado

[@thisismygear]

I agree, but then does Sony act on anything? I ask because they still rarely update firmware, and they still cripple hdmi out at 4k60. :/ My A1 cost how much again and I can’t sent 8k out over hdmi? 😂😂😂🤦‍♂️ Maybe someday.

[@evrythingis1]

@@FloydTaylor If he could have, he would have. His content is worthless without bots using it to illegally promote viral advertisements. He is the problem and he doesn't know how to handle his ego yet.

[@qiyuxuan9437]

​@@thisismygearWell, Sony does listen and improve, but pretty slowly compare to Nikon lol. But in the case with a1 and 8k hdmi out, I think that mighty be hardware limitation, since hdmi 2.0 bandwith is limited to 4k60 for uncompressed video signal, unless the camera hardware somehow supports hdmi 2.1.

[@Deatarus51]

@@FloydTaylor The problem with that is we'd have to wait months for reviews, and I for one have bought many expensive pieces of gear based solely on Gerald's review as it drops when the item hits the market. To make a purchasing decision I have to ether watch 20 KZbin reviews, or 1 Gerald review. I much prefer the latter.

[@xx1simon1xx]

I work in the film Business and have worked on quiet a few comercials. I hear the marketing people talk about "social" (social media, influencer marketing) all the time and let me tell you.. They dont give a shit about them. They loooove using influencers for marketing because compared to classic tv ads, having an influencer with a few million followers talk about you is DIRT CHEAP. You couldnt even pay for the CATERING for the film crew for those few thousand bucks. Imfluencer marketing is the absolute king cost/impact vise, and thats why they do it. They dont really care about feedback either, i have worked with working dops and photographers, who have gotten unmarked samples MONTHS in advance to use and give feedback on, they sign an nda and cant tell anyone about it, but they are getting PAID to use the stuff. Feedback loops are pretty much closed when the product comes to marked (and influencers get their hands on it). Im sorry to have to say this, but in the eyes of the brands, all youtubers are just marketing tools, no more.

[@PeterKoperdan]

This makes total sense. And it is also simply a sensible approach to prefer jolly super positive youtubers that are much more likely to cteate a positive impression of your product.

[@107productionsllc6]

Raw, direct, and honest. You really pull back the curtain on product marketing. You also still left it open for KZbinrs to choose their path. We need more videos like this. Bravo!

[@soupistasty5]

Was it Gerald's best video, ever? Just him, a table, a sheet of talking points and a pen. Yeah, it was

[@flochfitness]

Needed more bananas 🍌

[@Ahheck01]

I so wish there was a 10x like button that you could use once a month or something. I’d use it on this one.

[@BrowningFirearms]

No not at all. This is a terrible video...

[@Glaucidius]

It was just a another kind of video. Good, but not good to compare.

[@USGrant21st]

Isn't he sawing off the branch on which he is sitting?

[@stephencolor2010]

It seems like your transition away from the teleprompter was a tangible landmark showing you were moving from Phase 2 into Phase 3 as a creator

[@ItsJoeHut]

I'm not sure this wasn't teleprompted. But I'm not judging. Some people are great at writing things down but not so much at talking to a camera for 20 minutes. You might think it's easy, but just try it for yourself once.

[@evrythingis1]

He needs to go back to using one.

[@juliusen7336]

since when did he stop using one?

[@KRXOVRmedia]

Unrelated to this, but thank you for this format. I have been thinking about if I want to take the approach of having my notes on screen to help make filming easier and I have been hesitating on it. This gave me more of a push.

[@cre8r61]

As an upcoming KZbinr (and long time subscriber) this has been on my mind too. Some channels do the tech reviews for cameras, others do the how-to and others work in the real world use. There are some things that need to be covered off to appease the hand that feeds BUT integrity comes FIRST. We learn, grow and adapt and our sponsors should do this too - thanks for sharing your journey, life and passion making the world a better place

[@kustoo]

As a sneaker guy, this hits home. Literally just had conversations about this.

[@Ballinonabudget]

It’s fair to say every genre on this platform has companies who will take there ball and go home.

[@USGrant21st]

What do you snicker about? 😁

[@EdvardKALEN]

This is psychology. They give you good conditions, they pay for your trip, they treat you well and therefore, as a content creator, it is more difficult for you to say negative things about the company. Unfortunately, many content creators fall into this trap. This is especially evident in the videos about the Panasonic S9.

[@GarryReyom]

That camera is garbage

[@jpr-tech]

@20:55 "We're disposable as creators" - Gerald Undone wow 🤯, Gerald your honesty and creator's code is unmatched. Thank you for taking your time to share this unfortunate creators toxic dangers. I'm still in the beginning part of my creators life. It has taken me so many years to get to this point, but that is all me. I'm still not comfortable in front of the camera, and my talking skills need polishing. But I love the challenge and will not give up! I love "talking about tech and making the best use of for cheap or better yet FREE" - my opening statement.

[@TheGadgetGuru]

I've probably reviewed more products over my lifetime than most and I must say that this video is a long time coming. It seems the junket experience started with the automotive manufacturers (who used their clout with magazine ads to get positive reviews) and then tricked down to the consumer electronics industry in the 1990's. During my decade with the Today show, I didn't accept the free trips (as NBC paid my way) and other than the WSJ, others in attendance at the events were very much like what you described in your video. In this day and age, it seems there's more "influencers" than true reviewers and that has tarnished the credibility of online reviews. Keep up the good work!

[@background0001]

Gerald is getting done alright

[@MarekDrives]

Thanks for making this video, Gerald! I have similar experience in the automotive sector, where some brands will simply ghost creators for not being enthusiastic enough about their product. On the other hand there are those, who see value in constructive criticism, and we see improvements from model to model or generation to generation. Kudos to those brands, though more often than not it's a matter of long time relationship with the person in charge of PR. They are not your friends, but knowing them for 20 years, as they move from brand to brand helps. As for launch events, I think they are designed for print media, where a journalist on a salary could afford to spend a couple of days traveling to-and-fro an event (and loved every minute of it!), write a brief note of what was being presented, and awaited a review sample back home to do a full piece for their magazine in two months. As freelancers we make money creating content, not watching presentations, which could have been an e-mail. I don't recall the last time I was surprised to learn something at an event that I haven't read in the press release. And I always ask for a press release prior to the event to prepare at least 80% of the script to film the review in the brief time we get with the product. And the last time I learned something valuable from an engineer present at the launch event was probably 10 years ago. These days they are all prepped, and never go off script, so they will not tell the media anything beyond the scope of the press release related to this specific event. So yes, similar experience, being first no longer carries much value, and products actually worth reviewing are few and far between. One could say we're jaded :)

[@briansavage932]

Good on you, Jared. I simply don't trust “embargo lifted” reviews that all come out on the same day, and especially if they all take place in the same locale. I wait for channels who review actual production units that are purchased by the channel or on loan to the channel by entities other than the manufacturer. That eliminates a lot of the pro product bias. Loved this video!

[@ravenfallsphotography6254]

Thanks for going public on this. If nothing else, it will increase my skepticism about pre-launch "reviews" of products from Panasonic. Not because those making them are necessarily corrupt, but because the whole process of pre-selecting one's reviewers definitely is.

[@impatrickt]

Thnx for making this. My fav part is something you and I chat about all the time, which is finding your own lane. You don’t need to be first. You don’t need new things. You just need a point of view. My hope is everyone feels more empowered to speak their mind and be themselves on their platforms. I know the audience is craving it now more than ever.

[@arvidjohansson3120]

Cal Newport wrote a book called "Be so good they can't ignore" you about what really matters in work life. He took the quote from Steve Martin on how to be successful in show business. The most important thing is being good. KZbin often forget focusing on quality.

[@DanYosua]

Was looking for this. A great next watch for those interested is Colin and Samir's interview with Tim Ferriss. Make a product (podcast) so good, you can demand things from advertisers to fit your ethics/business/style that no one else can... because advertising on their shows just isn't as good.

[@AANasseh]

Wise words!

[@williamhicks2763]

Thanks for the book recommendation. 🙏 I have a copy on the way to my son who is in college.

[@USGrant21st]

"They" don't care how good you are. They only care if they can make money off of you.

[@USGrant21st]

@@DanYosua "you can demand things from advertisers" -- LOL. It the other way around in this life, those who have the money make demands.

[@cinema8564]

Good on you!!! So refreshing to hear something that is not cheerleading but balanced with the downside in a thoughtful and articulate exposition. Good for all of us to hear.

[@ImJasonAnthony]

Gerald I really value this video as I have myself felt pressure over the years creating the videos you’re talking about. We as a community need to do better for those who seek value in our word. I hope if we all start speaking up there will be more of an integral shift in the review community. Thank you for being so honest

[@SkylerKing]

Wow... I had actually just been talking about the current state of KZbin and photographers and all that. I hadn't seen anyone else talking about it, assumed I was the only one, and just talked into the void about it for a bit. Now, seeing this, hearing your perspective from "that side" of the KZbin space, and even just hearing the raw and real tone in your voice as you talk about this is unbelievably refreshing. Bravo.

[@fedorlischenko4196]

Ironically, I had the same kind of conversation about KZbin tech reviewers just a week ago. I think the G9 release may have revealed the problem for many people, who didn't notice it before.

[@JCustom]

This isn’t just for camera reviews. It applies to a lot of items. Cameras are a niche category vs other sectors where creators are paid to even unbox

[@stansz]

Very common practice in the car industry. Also not something new, as its been this way even in the print era.

[@JoATTech]

Cellphones are the worst.

[@thecritic2822]

i'm glad you came out and spoke about this. I've been griping about it for years in the youtuber space but it's nice to see you calling it out.

[@maximaresolucion]

As a new photography content creator I want to thank you for this, obviously one of the things I would love is to be contacted for a brand to make reviews of their products. But I don't want to be seen as a fool they could take advantage of. Good to know all of this!

[@ogonzilla]

I think where the waters get really muddy is mixing actual reviewers (You, Gordon Laing, Petapixel) with camera dweebs like me. "Ooooo, new camera, let me play!!" I am not a review channel by any stretch, but instead enjoy sharing my unbiased experience after some real-world usage. I think some non-reviewers come off as genuine while others perhaps...let's say, feel the pressure to "be so excited" about the camera.

[@shawnwu2954]

Well said. That’s why I watched your videos and videos from the guys you mentioned.

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

It definitely creates some confusion for the audience when they tune into a new channel and the video isn't the "review" that they expected.

[@IanInChengdu]

Your channel was the reason I bought an XT20 & XT30 because you actually used those cameras for personal use…..

[@Malick333]

Omar, you are one of the YT’s I trust the most. For many reasons, but one is you STILL praise the strengths of older gear. Anyone who uses both newer gear and older gear knows this to be true. I love my Xpro2 more than my X100VI. 😉

[@chrisjonesfilm]

I quite love what you have to say about Sony and about respect for brands.. Immunity to risk is not something any reviewer can guarantee, and I would rebound that to cinema reviewers as well. Dishonest product reviews has led us to a worsening world. Thanks, Gerald, for having integrity.

[@BoostLeekdMedia]

Man, it is refreshing to watch this. It's one of the reasons why I am VERY on the edge about accepting certain sponsors and brand sponsors. Also, 'being first' videos is seriously mentally tiring. As much as I want to, I tried it for 2-3 months and it was just draining. I couldn't do it but seriously, props to those people that are doing it. Thanks for the great video man!

[@RVMiles]

Thank you for doing this. It needs to be said. I'm in another industry that wrestles with the same concerns. Regarding press events - there's a way to do it responsibly. It's not a review, it's news. "Canon released the R1 today, here is what it looks like and the images it can create. Here is my analysis of where it may fit in the overall market, the cameras it competes with, and how its specs stack up. Here are some quotes from reps (not me) about what it can do and why it's a big deal." Without excitement in my voice, without any marketing language, not really saying much positive or negative about it. It's just info. I'm a newscaster, not a personality. And that's a line that's a struggle for some KZbinrs to walk. But it's freeing when you do.

[@Rstamats]

Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people. Thanks!

[@ThisIsTechToday]

Adhering to embargoes has been a thing I keep seeing more and more creators not caring about hitting anymore. They put out the video after it when they feel it’s ready. Rushing to hit the embargo only leads to rushing, stress, missing things, making mistakes, and burn out. It’s not worth it.

[@verebellus]

i can tell how exhausted you are about this whole scenario. but i also love that you are brave enough to name brands directly and take up the topic. huge kudos to you Gerald, love your entire channel

[@fjhphoto]

Props to making this video. Was never interested in being a camera reviewer but if I had I know that “playing the game” would always be at the forefront of my mind. And I never liked that aspect.

[@stevenkralovec]

Hearing this fully “uncensored” feedback is refreshing!!! Thank you Gerald!!! We need more of this on KZbin!

[@DrWaSaBe]

Watching all the S9 reviews was shocking to me, its way too positive for a camera that is only 200-300 dollars less than the S5 II but has at least 6 major features removed for like a 30% size reduction? Madness! To top it all off, it comes with a manual focus F8 lens, are you kidding! The price should of been way lower, and it should of bundled with that upcoming zoom lens, why would you get an S9 now and then buy that lens later it will end up costing more than the S5 II!!!!!!!

[@Tudor_Mateescu]

The manual focus lens f8 fixed aperture is the cherry on top - you can't go lower than that 😅

[@SA-rz6fj]

Should have.... it's 'have', not 'of'. How can people get this wrong so haveten?

[@robmcd]

The S9 was designed as a hype-train shakedown. With the rise of street photography and demands for a full frame X100 and XPro4 coming out the LUT features seriously awesome but LUMIX chose to launch it with a Camera with no intrinsic value. It’s manufactured e-waste.

[@TedBorel]

@@adidabax6809 I’m not a LUMIX fanboy (I have used Lumix but mostly Canon and some DJI & Sony now), but I’ve noticed that LUMIX is always getting pooped on compared to the other big names - who remembers the GH5 autofocus gate? KZbinrs made it sound like the worst camera ever b/c they only hammered the AF. It was a really good camera. I don’t think the S9 is the most fantastic camera ever, but I can see the positives in it. It’s jumped into a market competing with Sony and Fuji now. I’ve been following camera reviewers on YT for over a decade, back when everyone was on Canon switching to Sony and I see the back-to-back Sony, Fuji, DJI, Canon content flood my feed when the new thing launches and it’s almost always super positive barely negatives on those launch videos. It makes it easy to tell who is in whose pockets. But it is mostly LUMIX getting pooped on. They’re no better or worse. All these KZbinrs’ videos are the reason for X100V and VI, DJI pocket 3 and every Sony (released in the last 10 years) to get over-hyped and sold out for months. I get that being a serious KZbinr IS a job and they have to get paid somehow, and I get where Gerald is coming from, but seems unfair for a Sony guy to make this video after a LUMIX launch.

[@Squidpaws-]

​@@SA-rz6fjhaha 😄 I see what you did there.

[@enshongmiranda]

That's why I respect Nikon and how they market (or the lack of it) when they launch products. It's actual working photographers who get to use them most in their chosen field of photography. And I think the chaperone thing is more for them to be able to hear feedback in person and maybe provide explanation on features.

[@WoodcraftBySuman]

dude, this is a MUCH needed discussion. As you mentioned, it certainly extends beyond camera niche.

[@skymakai]

I'm SO glad you're talking about this. I'm really disappointed with the state of KZbin camera reviewers. I've watched as nearly every KZbinr has become a shill for nearly every camera related product. I had an "aha" moment a few years ago when the Canon R5 came out and one of the biggest / my favorite KZbinr shilled it. He said it was a photo+video powerhouse. When it later came out that it was overheating and not good for video, I realized I can't trust anyone on KZbin anymore. Well, only a few can be trusted, like you.

[@robmcd]

But the Canon R5 is a photo and video powerhouse. Wolfcrow made a feature film with it. I can’t remember who did the video on the R5 but it was something like “awesome camera; awful marketing” because it was… Canon pushed it as an 8K weapon when it wasn’t. It was a fringe feature that had serious limitations.

[@jordanshipley448]

@@robmcd it was Gerald who made that video

[@robmcd]

@@jordanshipley448 lololololol

[@teohyc]

And you should call out those creators with their names so that there are consequences

[@skymakai]

@@robmcd When it came out, the R5 could barely shoot video before overheating for HOURS.

[@I-0-0-I]

What killed me was that after watching vids for years, I finally bought a real camera. It was a Sony a7S II. First day, I got the error about sensor misalignment. I google the error, and it turns out that this is a known issue. The solution is to smack the camera body. What in the actual f? I had watched dozens, or hundreds of videos about cameras. Sony was very heavy in the rotation. How had no one ever mentioned that this recall-worthy issue existed?

[@SkateEverythingProject]

That's why the lag time is sooo important. Marques Brownlee has talked about adhering to the timeline of the embargo is extremely difficult to produce a good review of something and when there's sample size significant enough to warrant a known issue isn't one of the ones he got in testing and makes reviewsblook dishonest. If you look around on most big name products it's a bunch of reviews when it first came out and if the viewers got one of the good ones they might have not have even experienced the issue.

[@dcloud]

I owned one from day 1 and never had that for years even when i sold it a year ago

[@qiyuxuan9437]

lol, Sony makes good cameras, but they dont have the best quality control. I used several FX6s and a FX9, and the control dial on all of them has minor encoder issues, when you try to scrow down in the menu, it sometimes it scrow up or randomly up and down a few times.

[@Artfulscience1]

Not trying to politicize things, but this reminds me of a quote Jordan Peterson said once that has always stuck with me. “Systems tend toward corruption.” What was once pure and creative, can often turn sour contrived once money and clout gets involved. That LUMIX incident that happened to you is wild. That is conceptually no different than lobbyists punish on politicians for not adhering to their behind the scenes agenda. It’s gross to think that the same sort of behavior happens in the camera world. Kudos to you for your integrity-a true “ronin” 👏🏻

[@howlingmad9773]

Gerald, kudos for you for really bringing this up. People should see behind the curtain and have all the information at their side. I truly believe that honesty is the way forward when it comes to reviews, even if it hurts a brand. We don't need to vilify anyone but we should definitely be aware of everything going on. The truth is something everyone deserves to hear. If brands want to keep improving and have their customers satisfied, they really have to take up with the criticism and be able to improve on it. When it comes to youtubers, I truly believe some of them really do their best to please everyone and have content. And yes, it is understandable that they have to make money, they need their content to survive, pay their mortgage, feed their families, etc. but it sets a bad precedent on a lot of fronts, from companies, from reviewers.... This really should stop and creators should have the liberty to release good content, on their timeline and without this FOMO mentality that has been everyday's bread. You are amazing, dude! Keep up with good content and with your honest attitude!

[@scotttucker9613]

Gerald, take the frustration you felt as a “viewer” and now multiply that for those of us that are the actual audience. We are exhausted trying to suss out the truth through the same 30 talking heads who are all shoving sunshine up our asses because they don’t want to jeopardize their precious brand relationship. I used to love camera KZbin. Now, hate is a strong word but it’s most definitely the next stage of grief for me. It’s all so obvious and annoying and disheartening if not downright disgusting in certain cases where it’s clear that relationships were not disclosed. The world needs less press conference regurgitators and more people talking about PHOTOGRAPHY. Love your stuff. Keep it up.

[@AANasseh]

The best kind of reviews are ones where the reviewer buys the camera, uses it, and sells it and gets an unrelated sponsor. No early release. Only after the camera is officially launched. Marcus Pix is a great example but he reviews much older gear with a specific target of light and inexpensive.

[@Getoffmycloud53]

There is a balance, people ARE interested in the latest gear, but like you wrote interest in gear doesn’t end after the hyped release, at least not if it is a good product. People buying and actually using their own gear are a great source of information, especially if they have been using the gear over a more extended period of time. You’d be amazed how many products practically disappear from YT after the initial hyped release. Puts the hype in perspective. Good piece by Gerald, honest appraisal by a professional who has reached the point of having a successful personal brand.

[@AANasseh]

@@Getoffmycloud53 That's key, developing a trustworthy no-hype reputation that gives real value in terms of purchase decisions vs. those who simply hype or are over enthusiastic in everything they see! Gerald is being courteous by calling them enthusiastic people who love gear... I'm more cynical about it. I think the best strategy, as I've seen over the past 15 years of KZbin, is to wait until after the hype and only listen to a trustworthy reviewer at that point. Cheers!

[@wvansluisveld3011]

Dude also doesn’t seem to need the money. That helps as well

[@actstuntcam]

Love Marcus - so positive.

[@EwenBell]

OMG. I got so many trash comments on my S9 video because people assumed I was flown to Osaka by Lumix. I've just finished three weeks working in Japan and road testing the S9 and I'll have a much more in depth piece to cover the camera now... and it turns out arriving at the exact same conclusion as my original piece (just with better photos!). I did think it was very weird when some KZbinrs showcased the actual trip itself in their review videos. No wonder an audience might be unsure if the reviewer is being authentic, consciously or not. Fascinating to hear about your journey with the Lumix people. There's a lot of nuance there.

[@dansouthphoto810]

Fascinating video! So much to unpack! I appreciate your perspective and the way your addressed these marketing practices directly and frankly.

[@chrisbrockhurst]

Strap in everyone.

[@daviddodier8845]

This is exactly what is happening on KZbin and guys/girls like Gerald will figure out there is another more lucrative market emerging, the one six months from launches where the reviewer buys the product and gives us a review after having used the product sufficiently. THESE are the videos I now seek and I completely ignore launch shill videos of all products. Two different markets of viewers, two different types of creators, and creators can’t play in both markets because the audience in market number 2 will lose all respect and avoid you if you create for market number 1. I think Gerald is ahead of the game and finding a new business model among creators.

[@Amphibax]

There are lot of creators who play in both markets its really not uncommon to produce one first impression video and put out a full review later.

[@davadh]

The reviews don't need to change, the creators do

[@cassiepike834]

Well done, undone! You provided so much clarity to a problem that creates mistrust with viewers too - on all platforms and products/categories. We appreciate you!

[@Jason-fm3qi]

this is how it is. KZbin is supposed to be a voice by the people, for the people. If I want to watch ads I'll find ads to watch.

[@fgrep15]

People making content have to make money, it's work to make good (keyword) content. Therefore I can't speak against ads, I even let ada play fully on content I like. I read too many people who don't want ads but then they don't want to pay to subscribe for good content they like either, but somehow expect the creators to put time, money and effort into good content and magically make a living lol

[@PeterLindgren1]

Loved hearing your input bro! Gonna see if i can chime in on this too.

[@VictorLaforteza]

This was spot on. Thanks for sharing. These conversations are what need to be put out there. Playing the game has good rewards but also risks (and for me, it's super tiring...) I went back to just doing my own thing and remembered how I started - with my own gear and my own thoughts

[@Iamtongue]

Real

[@kashyapchonekar5437]

This is why i love markuspix

[@onocoffee]

Agree or disagree with him, that guy buys all his gear and talks straight about them.

[@TwaynePereira]

Gerald just went full undone. Well spoken and really insightful!

[@DiveInto]

Great video as always. Also, the quality of this video is outstanding. Am a long time fan, if I'm not mistaken, this appears to be your new studio but made to look like your old studio? Outside of the change of location would you mind sharing please what other changes you've made. Anything different on the lighting/camera/lenses? Thanks Gerald.

[@MichaelSaadi]

I respect your transparency and authenticity so much. Literally why you’re my favorite camera reviewer. Thank You so much man. Honestly. Its so hard finding authentic reviews in this space.

[@tanmaysakpalofficial]

Man I have never heard such articulate, accurate and impactful words from a tech content creator! Don't remember me watching a 20+ video completely in one go in last many months! Amazing Gerald! Absolutely amazing!

[@EposVox]

Hell yes. More conversations like these

[@komedybitspresents...600]

This video should be called 'The Awakening'.

[@snappiness]

This is such a good topic to talk about and you had some great points and perspectives as someone whos worked with the top brands. I've had a smaller but well known brand in the camera space try and sponsor me to talk about a product that I didnt have my hands, BEFORE I got my hands on. (Didnt do that, or worked with them at all in the end) But that had me wondering how many people do work under those terms. Maybe not because they are unethical or anything, but like you said the pressure of "being first" or working eith a big brand, or maybe it just feels like the only way to succeed as a social media influencer. Sometimes I wonder if what they teach in the marketing world is just such a different language. And I liked that you differentiated between the brand as a whole and a marketing team or individual. I think a brand can be good, and just have overzealous marketing personnel yhat need to be corrected.

[@Slipsch]

Camera company should never anger Gerald, I think most people watch Gerald's video for it's authenticity, actually test of the camera.

[@nothajzl]

Gerald is the MKBHD of the camera world😂

[@antonioarroyas7662]

On the contrary, the products speak for themselves. Even if they don't invite him to all the exclusive stuff, he'll eventually get his hands on the hardware and put out an honest review. The smart companies will roll with the punches and keep inviting him. Not every release is a home run that rocks the industry. Watching this reminded me of the guys at Top Gear back in the day when they would do a bad review. The more things change the more they stay the same.

[@e5211]

​@@nothajzl Naa Gerald is way more technical.

[@DarkPa1adin]

​@@nothajzl no, he is the Ian Cutress of camera sensor!