Does gear REALLY matter for Expressive Photography?

[@astridpreisz519]

I so vividly remember when I first met other photographers in the field, and had nothing but my tiny Sony Alpha 6000. I heard things like: but that's not a real camera! Even when I already had switched to a full frame camera, I still had the small one and cherished it for so many reasons. When all my gear was stolen in 2020, I ended up finishing my trip with my old phone only - which didn't keep me from making images. The most important gear we can carry is our curious mind, our openness and the readiness to see the world with child-like imagination. Our tools can help us to express our creativity, but no matter what - our creativity will always find a way. I love the images you made - they are you, regardless of the tool you use. And I hope you will soon be pain-free and out and about again.

[@royhakala7999]

I really enjoy using a system that seems largely ignored, the Canon M6 Mark II. It is so compact and produces such nice, sharp images that I look for excuses to use it instead of my full-frame Canon R5 gear.

[@ngrabowskiphoto]

I have quite strong opinion that gear does matter. I don't mean that you can't get fantastic results with more basic camera I mean how much easier is to get fantastic results with an advanced camera system. And for me it's always the question am I carrying around gear that gives me creative freedom to do what I want or am I continuously struggling and focusing on attempts to overcome camera limitations. Answer to this maybe different depending on photographer - your GFX would be extremely limiting camera for me as my second love after landscapes is wildlife. Another fantastic video with interesting point of view and excellent topic to think and talk about. Thank you very much!

[@PMCN53]

I understand your discomfort and pain, I have a bulging L4 -L5 disk for the past 4 years... my photography expeditions diminished to almost ZERO! I initially managed it with medication, but I eventually worked on strengthening the rest of my back, Legs & arms to compensate. I'm now much better at managing the issue & I can still use my DSLR & all that goes with it as a 69yo! There is always some solution to as issue & hope & pray that your back can be treated & rehabilitated, so you can use that magnificent GFX 100-2. Looking forward to your next VLOG, cheers from Australia.

[@Alister_Benn]

Yeah, but I’m positive and have a pretty good attitude (most of the time! 😂)

[@PippetWhippet]

Hi, I’ve just found your channel and it’s marvellous! I had a very rude awakening a few days ago, I was walking through town when a bunch of photography students started following me and taking photographs - I was in a very picturesque part and was the only human out and about at that moment. Now, I’ve always thought I had a top of the range modern camera, simply because since I purchased it, I stopped following the camera scene and it was a flagship camera at the time. I got talking to these students and proudly showed off my X-Pro 1. Some of them were 5 years old when I had purchased it!! Their cameras were like modern marvels in comparison, they were using mine as if it was some ancient relic from a bygone era, while I couldn’t quite believe how incredible theirs was. The thing is, I can’t imagine needing another camera for another decade, nothing their cameras could do would have in any way improved my photographs. I don’t need to crop heavily, I’m happy with my little trio of primes, I’m not a professional and the closest I get to shooting sport is photographing my dogs jumping. It’s still more camera than I need so what would even more camera bring me?!!?

[@iaincphotography6051]

The best kit for you at the moment would be a Tens machine and a supply of Dihydrocodeine, I hope you are feeling better, the pain can be excruciating and disabling AGH! Great results off the S20. I daresay that Jackson Pollock owned a sable brush or two but he managed quite well with a stick and an old bike but he did have a creative mind. Sadly this cannot be bought at MPB.

[@trishf29]

I love my OM-1 EM-1 mark iii. It suits my hand, has less weight, OK it’s only 20mp, but it does me. Its little companion the EM-10 mark iv, is great for walks, and lighter still. Then there are the lenses, all light, except the bigger focal length ones, which I rarely use. I too have a bad back, and am quite a few years older, so the Olympus is perfect for me these days.

[@SimonWillig]

To me there is only one question that has to be answered: does the equipment do what you want it to do or is it holding you back?

[@Alister_Benn]

That’s pretty much it really - thanks

[@Ruscombephotos]

Thanks Alister! It is always reassuring to hear that equipment is not the be all or end all. I am in a happy position to be able to afford my first full-frame camera after shooting on what many would call an entry-level Canon APS C 1.6 times crop sensor. A full-frame camera will also require new lenses. I think the new lenses will be the biggest improvement for me in image quality, although I have often been pleasantly surprised and impressed with the performance of my kit lenses. But sometimes I do see a loss of sharpness towards the edges. And I need a new filter system and also need a new tripod to replace my flimsy thing. I’m looking for something robust that’s not going to weigh a tonne or break the bank. And I think it is time I treated myself to a decent camera bag for the first time. There is a lot for me to consider. But I would still see myself continuing to use my crop sensor camera and maybe take it on a trip if weight is ever an issue. A few years ago, I would have rushed out to make my purchase. Now I am taking my time. If I wanted to change brands, now would be the time. You came away from Spain with some beautiful photographs. I love the simplicity of the first one you showed with that big sea stack smack in the middle of the frame. And I also liked the beach with those running lines going out into a channel in the middle.

[@JamesLanePhoto]

It’s like saying to a painter “does your type of paintbrush matter?” - and the answer would be very much so, but does having the wrong paintbrush stop them being an artist? No. Great video Alister.

[@tgsnider]

Thanks, Alister, for another great video. The images you got with your "little" camera are gorgeous. The lesson, that who's behind the camera is more important than the camera itself, is something every photographer would benefit from knowing. Well done!

[@danevarkevisser4670]

Alister, a few nice images there to prove the point. I generally don't take much interest in gear videos or reviews, but I feel this is important message. I have been using micro four thirds cameras for some years now and loving them. My OM System/Olympus kit is fun to use and just makes me want to go out and take photographs. What more can I want! I have no issue with the image quality and have no inclination to buy into a full-frame or medium format camera system. I have hi-resolution modes if I feel I need more resolution or more dynamic range, but almost never use them. None of this is to say larger sensor cameras are bad. But I like what the smaller system does for me. The most important considerations for me when buying into a camera system are ergonomics, weather sealing, weight and image stabilisation. All cameras on the market these days are capable producing great images in the right hands. Like you I am a big fan of having the ability to change the aspect ratio in camera and if there is one improvement I feel most camera manufacturers could easily make, it would be to give us more options for cropping.

[@john_norris]

I wish you a speedy recovery Alister! I can only imagine so take care and chin up. I have consciously moved from large, heavier, pro lenses to lighter more compact enthusiast lenses, simply because I was prepared to accept the reduction in quality to achieve more comfort and ease of movement when hiking to locations. I have done the same with my tripod. I have a standard (sturdy) tripod and an Ulanzi & Colman travel tripod with my own ballhead. The latter is probably one of my best purchases, again because 13 to 18kgs on our back is simply not fun and eventually, as time unfolds, you learn to compromise. Great video Alister! Thanks for sharing.

[@kathylinford1]

Thanks for this video Alister. Incredible images and brought back a lot of memories from my time there a year ago! My kit has gotten so much smaller and lighter. Smaller backpack, camera body, everything! I am really happy with what I can capture with my 48 megapixel Sony a7riii and 28-200 lens.

[@esanford]

As usual, a good video. As you know, I have the "big GFX" system. However, I have been really enjoying the little Ricoh GR III that I purchased recently. It is quite obvious that "good equipment" makes things more convenient. Nevertheless, vision remains the same. As you found, having the smaller camera allowed you to "get out" and enjoy the landscape in spite of your physical issues. For me, having the smaller camera keeps me out of fights with airline attendants when I have my big bag.... 😁😁😁😁

[@flemmingmorgan1929]

Beautiful shots! Thank you for this video. It really illustrates how well that our creativity is a far greater contributor to great photos than our gear. For wildlife some elements of the gear may help (fast focus etc). I switched to Sony some years ago to save on weight and protect my back! I have been really happy with the system.

[@trishsala4512]

Thanks for this reassurance, once again, that new gear as nice as it is, does not necessarily make one a better photographer. For those of us with an "average sized " pocket book, it can be challenging to manage bouts of GAS 😉. However, I also love the advantage of a smaller lightweight system, that allows me freedom to access places that are less accessible. It's in videos like this that I find encouragement to practice my creativity with the gear I already own; and to feel confident that, yes I can create something original. Thank you so much for the work that you do!

[@anisab9506]

I’m super happy with my little Z50. It allows me just that: wander in wonder without the weight. Saves my back and does the job. Waiting for a 1m x 1m print. We’ll see how good it behaves then, but am definitely not concerned.

[@Alister_Benn]

Absolutely true. My back is grateful

[@juanitakelly3082]

What lenses do you use with your Z50?

[@anisab9506]

@@juanitakelly3082 The one that came with the camera. 98% of the time I use the 50-250 and I love it

[@juanitakelly3082]

Thanks! I like my little Z50 for the same reasons. @@anisab9506

[@glendaspackman7760]

Yesterday made the decision to buy the fuji xt5 and a couple of lenses as I'm going on safari in Africa for a month then traveling in Europe for 3 months. I have a Canon R6 and trio of lenses but I decided yesterday that they're too big and bulky. Your video today is perfect timing as I've agonized over my decision for days. Thanks. 😊

[@Alister_Benn]

Nice, delighted to hear that. Sounds like an amazing trip, I’m envious ❤️

[@Perski2844]

I don't want to be misunderstood. But, for example, many photostock’s accepts photos from 5 Mpix. And today we publish 99% of photos online (72 dpi). A static 4K image is only about 10 Mpix... We live in times of exaggeration and giving in to the persuasions of brand marketing. There is nothing wrong with buying new equipment. But we have to be reasonable :) Our wallet will thank us ;)

[@Alister_Benn]

💯 I actually sell big prints up to 200cm so it does make a difference, but for insta, then absolutely a waste of time

[@georgemason2472]

Beautiful shots. The gear matters to the extent you mentioned. Also as Adam mentioned, if it motivates you to get out.

[@Alister_Benn]

Absolutely

[@OldGirlPhotography]

While I don't generally think better gear makes better photos, there is a dividing line that you can choose to cross - a functionality benefit from the latest technology and an optical benefit from better sensors and lenses. It all depends how much "person-effort" you want to put into the shot yourself. But some of the most compelling photographs I have ever seen have come from very basic gear and the person-effort of the photographer. I've found the right balance for me in the Canon R5 and a series of compact f/4 lenses. And as you say, Alister, if you enjoy working with specific gear, that emotional enjoyment might just come through in your results.

[@martinoberstein8431]

Thank you, Alister - beautiful shots of the rock structures!

[@chesslover8829]

Is expensive camera gear necessary for expressive photography? The simple answer is no. Smartphones and pinhole cameras, for example, are capable of creating compelling images.

[@Alister_Benn]

Agree 💯

[@pascalthiebaud]

I totally agree with you the material is not a barrier to create images but of course it can be a barrier for a certain type of photography and for a certain type of use. I could never afford the Hasselblad 907x so I do with what I have and I don't do so badly except for bird photography where I struggle. Thank you for this Alister video.

[@DennisBater]

Great video as usual, I enjoy your take on photography.

[@dronepilotcontractors4094]

We are programmed that more money means it is better. After listening to you and others I stuck with my Crop Sensor cameras, however I did invest in a Canon 90D 😊.