Releasing Expectations: Antarctica Photography with a Nikon D850

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Would you do the polar plunge?! Thanks for watching!

[@terrygoyan]

Not a chance!

[@janvanholten7592]

Off course, .....together🙂 Really nice trip report.

[@Gareth1959]

A few years ago, probably. Nowadays, I'd probably go straight down to visit Davy Jones in his locker!

[@AcaciaFikeNelson]

I would...figure I would realistically only be there once in my lifetime. I would love to know what changed your mind about doing it?? Great video and photos Courtney! 🐧📸 Oh and yes! The 70-200 f/2.8 is heavy! I have the Z-mount version for my Z6. But man does it take fantastic photos! I bought it for when I photograph golf tournaments! Though admittedly, my wrist always hurts after using it for like 5-6 hours!

[@robgutkowski7141]

Definitely, why live with the regret of missing out on a once in a lifetime opportunity?

[@LenCarey]

For someone out of their comfort zone, you were brilliant. Excellent images, well done.

[@florianbecke3076]

"Not a single part of my body wants to do that" ... ..... ...... GERONIMO!

[@ATC_Forgiven]

What an amazing life to live

[@RichAdamsFineArt]

I might recommend the f/4 version of the 70-200mm. I have carried one for years as I do mostly landscape photography and it is my favorite for pulling details out of a landscape as well as a perfect portrait lens. Especially since it's very useable wide open. Much lighter than the 2.8 and still amazingly versatile.

[@henryhammond4653]

Was going to suggest the same, I use the f4 version, not sure how it stands up against the 2.8 or with the D850 but definitely sharp enough for me, as you say much lighter both in weight and cost

[@oneeyedphotographer]

@@henryhammond4653 Canon has three 70-200 lenses, F2.8, F4 stabilised, F4 unstabilised. The last is relatively cheap and light, a favourite amongst landscapers. Nikon, mirrorless I don't know.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thanks, I'll take a look at the f/4 version sometime too and see how I get on with it.

[@ShaunM-xw1em]

I Was going to suggest the same, wonderful lens indeed.

[@trevor9934]

I shoot mostly Canon, but had very much the same experience. I actually chose Canon when I switched from film to digital (up to that point I was shooting Nikon and Canon), choosing Canon for the EF 70-200 f/2.8L MkII IS USM, which is an amazing lens, but an absolute howitzer. As a result of the weight and fairly limited FL, I didn't use it that much, and eventually got the 70-200 f/4 MkII, IS USM, which has great optics but much lighter and less bulky. I am selling my 2.8. That said, for wildlife I also shoot with the Sigma 150-600c and 60-600s lenses and while they are heavier, they offer the benefit of massive zoom ranges and long focal lengths.

[@spirg]

Absolutely BREATHTAKING ❤❤❤, I had a 70/200 , sold it, and now about to buy another…. Heavy , but the sharpest lens I’ve ever owned, EXCELLENT WORK COURTNEY

[@Rob.1340]

Polar plunge, yes. Thank you. All the best. 👍📷😎

[@PhotoTrekr]

I'm sure you'll remember this trip the rest of your life. Hope you get to return some day. Thanks for taking us along.

[@michaeltorluemke3322]

Congratulations for doing the polar plunge. Well done.

[@badger67]

Hat's off to you. What a fantastic adventure. Beautiful images. 👍

[@N0DramaLlama]

Amazing video! The penguins are so adorable. The Shy - Not shy shot was really cute. Such a great experience, thanks for sharing this amazing trip with the world!

[@dwrisdon2487]

This experience will stay with you as a professional building block for the rest of your days in photography. Bravo!!! Bill

[@Durio_zibethinus]

You did a good job with vlogging, filming, and make a photograph at the same time, well done. The photos themselves get a sense of scale difference, and it's really appealing. Sadly, no dancing penguin 🐧

[@lyniles3881]

Yes, having seen Courtney's proclivities for such things in previous vlogs, I was very disappointed not to see her do a "Happy Feet" routine with the Gentoos! ;-)

[@robertlawrence7958]

Excellent video. You would have to have blody good eyesight to see Wales from down there! Greetings from.......... Wales.

[@markrutledge-docmark41]

Courtney, many thanks for sharing your wonderful adventure with us! I love your style, and appreciate the way you present your trip, so that we can all "be there" with you! You mentioned the Nikon f2.8E 70-200, and I have to say, mine is my most favorite lens. My usual kit is the Nikon "Holy Trinity", all f2.8, and a Nikon f1.8 nifty fifty. However, I just added a Nikon 500mm f/5.6 E PF ED VR, which is turning out to be quite a great lens! Cameras are usually two D750's, but I also love my D500 and D4S. My wife and I may well have an Antarctica adventure coming up year after next, and if all goes well, I'll be returning to your pertinent videos to pick up more tips, suggestions, and hints! Thanks, again, for sharing your skills, and also, your fun sense of humor! MUCH appreciated! Take care, and God Bless! - Doc Mark

[@OneWildKirby]

Love how you were able to photograph and video vlog the trip!

[@janneroz-photographyonabudget]

As a person whose life long ambition has been to go there, my jealousy levels are off the scale! I'm just glad that you've managed to bring a personal touch to your video, so much better than watching someone on tv going there. Watching your video is almost as good as experiencing it first hand, but at least I'm warm. You are so brave, that plunge, I think if it had been me, I would've jumped in and then vanished forever. All of this with your lovely tones accompanying the video. Thank you so much for your channel, it's one of the highlights of my day whenever you post.

[@weisserth]

3:07 Nice shot, I like the layers. 5:52 Breathtaking landscapes for sure! 7:00 Yeah, I know what MPB are... And if I don't remember, my credit card does... I love them. Currently have one item back on warranty - first time trying out their warranty process with a Canon EF 50mm f1.2 L with a back focus issue - curious as to how MPB will be able to handle that. 9:04 Lovely shot! And the next one too! 9:27 The color palette is insane. 10:28 Great pairing. 12:24 Chill group. Great shot. Group portrait of the cool gang. Brilliant trip. Probably not cheap and a once in a lifetime experience for most people. Thanks for bringing us along!

[@PMCN53]

Another fantastic vlog into your personal experience in Antarctica. I also follow Greg Snell, and i did se you pop up in one of his B roles. The journey and experience i imagine was exhilarating! Some fantastic images… make sure they make it to the print shop👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@markielinhart]

Amazing location⁉️That’s an understatement you lucky duck✌️🌻🇦🇺

[@Powerstroke98]

That was one wicked wind, at the beginning of the video, my goodness! You're making some wonderful memories Courtney, and being one that feels ill with movement, it's doubtful I'll bode well on the ship crossing, so I'm hoping upon your return, you will explain your entire trip, as I've always put off such excursions for this reason! I tend to be fine driving to locations, thus that is my travel choice these days, but always love hearing of others that travel for their photography! Noticed there was little time for your 'often' forest dance, while on the ice! Stay safe and enjoy your exciting journey!

[@davelangley2965]

Absolutely well done Courtney. More great shots once again, considering how wet and cold you must of been they are beautiful, Got to tell you though, not a Penguins chance in Antarctica would I of taken that plunge. Safe journey home...👍🐧🐧🐧

[@ashstubbings2603]

Touch breezy then? 😄😄In all seriousness though, it looked like an amazing trip, and thank you for documenting it for us.

[@craigmantle5362]

100-400mm tamron > 70-200mm all day for hiking and landscapes. Beautiful video Courtney.

[@darkpixin]

absolutely wonderful images in this unique landscape

[@petermcginty3636]

Thank you, Courtney.

[@jenniferdacreativeexplorer]

Courtney - I love your channel and your videos. I love your style, quirkiness, narration and I absolutely LOVE your thought process through your photos. Thank you for such great content.

[@andywhiteside16]

WOW what an amazing trip your so lucky to have experienced such a wonderful location

[@woodygreen6826]

Good on you. I am jealous!

[@adragonphotography]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us. You took some great photos, and im glad you got your whale pics in the end!!!! I bet you will be happy to be dry and warm again!!

[@pepper6253]

Thank you for sharing your amazing journey . It was awe-inspiring amazing photos hand held and while freezing . enjoyed the penguin photos just stunning. Stay warm now. well deserved.

[@jaybradley9083]

What an awesome adventure that must have been. You did a very good job with the handheld shots and pano. No easy feat in a bobbing boat.

[@jimcross7002]

Polar plunge pure bravery thank you for taking US on a spectacular journey

[@TheOneAft]

Love that you started this video with the ending of the last one 😃 In general, it seems you had an unforgettable experience there. So cool that you did the plunge 🥶!

[@2009Portugale]

Very beautiful pictures, Thank you.

[@Hamilton100m]

What? No dancing with penguins?😢 Lost opportunity. Beautiful pictures, love your content. You are awesome👍.

[@kevanesson6540]

Great to see you doing the "Polar Plunge" and lucky to get the Orca shots at the end too!

[@kathylinaker4869]

I've been using a 70-210 4 lens for over 30 years on many Nikon film cameras. Now using on my 750. Have many lenses however 70-210 4 is by far favorite all these years mostly for animals. ❤️

[@PaulNewberyPhotography]

Brilliant photos 😊 a polar plunge no away especially when there is warm boat

[@swapandfriends]

So badass! Because i know how cold it can be as a resque diver! You rock!

[@SteveSmith-yc9ss]

Well done on the polar plunge, nice pictures and video in hard conditions 🐧🐧🐧

[@laurielphotography1118]

You got some really beautiful captures, Courtney! What an amazing adventure. Thanks for sharing this experience with us!

[@raewebb6365]

Awesome Vlog. I realize I’m definitely not physically fit enough for a trip like this, so I really enjoyed it they your experience. My favorite photo was the 1st one you took on top of that mountain/hill with the tripod. It looked so swirly and dreamy. Not your typical landscape.

[@LisaFrostPhoto]

What an amazing experience and your photography and videos are stunning! I'm glad you left the mountain shots in colour - some people like converting desaturated images like that to B&W but I love the slight hints of blues and yellows in them and feel that even though the colour is subtle it really brings them to life. All of which is to say your mountain and iceberg images are my favourites! Congratulations Courtney on being outside your comfort zone and producing such beautiful and inspiring imagery.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thank you Lisa!

[@dianevose9655]

Wonderful vlog and super images, well done on jumping in the freezing water, so amazing!!

[@lefthandedphotographer]

Beautiful image from a beautiful youg lady, it looks amazing

[@rensli1]

Thanks for sharing this adventure. The plunge is something extra for remembering this great trip to antartica. Have a good trip back and will stay tuned for your next video in the UK forest.

[@jasonhunt3970]

Great video Courtney and great pics, an awesome once in a lifetime experience. And yes, I would take the plunge!!

[@dennispenton2052]

Wow

[@paulo50001]

Your story telling is just amazing. Thanks for the ride...

[@alanhall5648]

Beautiful video and images great to see you pushing your photography skills 🔥🔥🇬🇧

[@johnd5244]

Fabulous images! The handheld pano is spectacular! Very worthy of hanging on one’s wall!!

[@davidfitzpatrick7399]

Gave into peer pressure I see. I grew up in Newfoundland and I watched icebergs, whales and other fun things from the ocean. Didn't know that one day people would fly into Newfoundland to watch an iceberg or whales. I do miss the ocean, one thing is that each time you walk along the shores there was something different. In June I may return to Newfoundland to visit relatives but it's also a good time to watch icebergs. Nothing like the sound of an iceberg rolling and breaking up in the night! It's a very wet cold and the snow is great for making a snowperson and snowshoeing. cool video but not something I want to do but you wouldn't want to carry my pack around as I chase the Grizzly bear here in Alberta. Enjoy and stay warm. lol

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Sounds like an amazing place to grow up in! Chasing Grizzly Bears...I'm intrigued ha!

[@davidshaw8515]

Thanks for sharing this journey with us. You got some photos and experiences you will never forget. Great job!

[@Marcello1b]

Absolutely beautiful photos! I wish I'd be there but also to have your artistic eye. 👍👍

[@robertdavis1255]

Thanks Courtney for sharing your experience... great pics in challenging conditions.... you did well to capture the amazing scenery in an amazing location....well done... cheers from Australia 😀❤️

[@DinoPozo]

Absolutely beautiful, interesting and great experience you have had Courtney. Thanks for sharing your experiences... live, enjoy and keep sharing your great videos.

[@robertchristian6910]

Great job great PICS!!!!! Congratulations.

[@Gareth1959]

What an experience! Very interesting to watch your visual diary Courtney, and some great images too.

[@domenicoavizzano8841]

Brava! Beautiful pics.. Dom

[@ciprianpopica]

Antarctica.... a long dream of mine. But I keep insisting to get there alone on my sailboat one day. Not sure if is a good idea... but I keep sticking to it 🤣🤣. Nice video... really enjoyed it. 🤗

[@MikeMena]

Can't wait for your next trip somewhere!! Super fun video stories, MORE OF THESE! :)

[@jeffolson4731]

Amazing video and an amazing adventure. I really enjoyed the pictures you shared. Like others have stated, the 70-200 f4 is a lot lighter. I have the f2.8 but if had a do over, I would get the f4. I don’t shot much portrait work with it, mostly close up wildlife or zoomed landscapes. I don’t need a f2.8 for that. The hand-held pano was pretty impressive. Your description of the smell of whale breath made me chuckle. I found it to be very accurate. Around here if a seal or otter tries to get in your boat you can bet there is an orca nearby.

[@rakeshnambiar1897]

Want more video like this, really enjoyed it ❤👍

[@lorenadeanda7388]

We just got back from Antarctica too. We got lucky and missed all bad weather. I see you had more snow around you. Looks amazing. Missing Antarctica.

[@paulfowler3416]

Some great photos in this vid.

[@slaphead55]

That looked like a fantastic experience (apart from the swimming bit). Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@GiuseppeGessa]

What great adventure!!! And your images are really beautiful. I love the penguin photos. Fantastic!

[@kkuehne45]

Great video, you did so well on the trip. That super windy day was something else. The wind caught me at one point, and threw me into the rail…thankfully I didn’t go overboard!

[@brianm.9062]

I have the very same 70 - 200 it is a beast, but worth the effort, images! you can feel the ice, your still pulling out the brilliant shots. Must be so exciting to be there.

[@DavidMiller_Photography]

What an amazing opportunity and experience filled with beautiful images and memories.

[@walkingonagoldenvine]

Wonderful

[@montanaylago]

So glad you get to go to Antartica!!! Pretty nice pics!!!

[@TC_Conner]

Great video/vlog Ms. Courtney! You looked terribly cold at times when you were walking the boat deck. I'm impressed with your stamina in the Antarctic cold! I would never be able to handle such conditions! And your polar plunge proved to me just how much stamina you truly have! I have a 70-200mm in my camera bag, it was the first Canon L lens I purchased. I think you'll probably have one in your bag permanently soon. Peace. 💜

[@Graygeezer]

I was just down there in the Viking Polaris and saw your ship with that huge antenna several times. I also recognize several of the icebergs. We had very mild Drake crossings. I used a Nikon D500 with 18-300 f3.5-5.6 and it did better than I had expected without weather sealing or internal condensation issues. Great video!

[@BigJim1961]

Courtney thank you for sharing the trip with us. Even if I never get to go myself watching you make the trip was pure joy. P.S. Have you thawed out from your polar plunge yet?

[@ilpoheikkila4773]

Great video and great pictures!

[@haroldcarlson2775]

Stellar images, what an amazing experience!

[@JonGibbsPhotography]

What a lovely set of videos from this special trip. Well done Courtney. A pleasure to watch. 😀

[@williamdavidson1490]

What a cool "Bucket List" trip !! Thanks for sharing these amazing images from the Antarctic. Cheer's from Vancouver Canada.

[@brandensPhotos]

Stunning photos!

[@danielapeterson]

Thanks so much for sharing this experience and your work is stunning!

[@glynparry6598]

Nice and interesting content Courtney. Well done with the plunge

[@Trish12303]

What an experience of a lifetime!! You are a brave young lady for jumping in that water, WAY braver than me!! 😂 Thank you for sharing your adventure and your beautiful images!! Safe travels home!!

[@derrickm9808]

That must be a great experience and some awesome photos , I especially like that shot of the light coming down into the snowy valley and is darker in the foreground and I have the same Nikon D850,24-120 f4 and 70-200 F2.8 VRII love them and they take great shots, congradulations Courtney !

[@rimtang]

Love your photos, footages and video.

[@fepatton]

“Polar plunge”? No thank you. You are crazy! 😂 But your images are gorgeous as is your videography, editing, and presentation. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

[@deanwhite6507]

Oh wow, what a wonderful and inspiring video 👌🏼and congrats on doing the polar jump 🥶🥶🥶👍 Cheers Courtney , From Dean White .

[@paulkirk5760]

Amazing video, your are officially crazy jumping in the Antarctic!! Nice orca images. Been out with them 3 times off Vancouver Island on boats a little bigger than zodiacs and on one occasion had 2 bulls swim directly under the boat. The at was an experience.

[@PMCN53]

Looks like a wonderful adventure, despite the elements! You were also in great company with BRendan VanSon & Greg Snell, I've been following their channels for some years now and they are great at what they do. I hope that you enjoyed the experience with them.

[@RoyJenkinsPacker]

Terrific photos and video. Beautifully done. You must of been mad, to take a dip.

[@jimstcyr]

Like how you caught the light refraction on the Orca shot at 16:03

[@tudorciobanu3895]

Wow, so many dSLR. That maybe proves nothing, BUT says something. Congrats, very good narative and of course photos

[@jackdarren9210]

Greetings from Alabama USA I enjoy your videos.

[@phynes6]

New follower. Another d850 user looking forward to more videos

[@randyschwager2515]

Fun adventure! Thanks for taking me along!

[@renegossel5139]

We all must thank mpb to support you. What a great video.

[@Fam2014Ch]

Wooooow 😍

[@101blog]

Good to see you there Courtney ... Glad you linked been out of your element with the "fishy breathed" creatures ;-)

[@brianeibisch6025]

Hi Courtney, great images of your Antarctica trip and great story telling too. 70-200 F2.8 is a large and heavy lens however I have a F4 version from Tamron. This is a fantastic lens, costing and weighing much less and I believe more appropriate for landscape photography anyway. I think the F 2.8 is really a studio and tripod lens. I also bought the collar for the Tamron F4 and found that to be most worthwhile too. Love your videos! Cheers

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thanks Brian for the suggestion! I'll look into it!