If I was starting out in photography from 0, this is what I'd do in 2024.

[@simon_dentremont]

What’s your best tip when starting out? Please share!

[@birdswithbeau]

Shoot shoot, and shoot some more! Practice makes perfect, and the best way to improve your photography is to spend more and more time in the field. Great video as always, thanks Simon!

[@simon_dentremont]

@@birdswithbeauagree!!

[@joestrahl6980]

I'm not sure I agree with your tip early on: identify and go with a niche. I think some start out exploring and trying several different genres and then after say half a year they have figured out what they like and are interested in. They then know what focal lengths are more important for them, if they will need to invest in lights or nd filters or whatever. So an alternative is to get a used camera and two lens representing different genres and then explore. After that, take a step up with lenses that suit your chosen genre. That is how I would have done it knowing what I now know.

[@davidgommeren7283]

When I started becoming more serious (as in not only holiday pics) and whenever I get a new lens or body, I go out and take photos of simple stationary objects. Buildings, details of buildings or fences, etc. That way you don't have to stress about it moving or flying away, you can always position yourself so the light and circumstances are perfect. Maybe the photos are not to keep or publishing (although I kept quite a few) but it teaches you important things about your equipment and helps teaching you framing, composition, nice backgrounds, sharpness, etc. etc.

[@Twobarpsi]

Buy used gear, and the latest camera, won't make you a pro photographer.

[@fishermansfriend5145]

Simon is like that cool uncle that is super into photography and wants to share it with you.

[@IceNFire09]

I'm fortunate in that my own dad is like this (40+ years amateur experience). I recently got into photography myself and it's like I'm a kid again showing off my work to him lol.

[@keppycs]

@@IceNFire09 that's so cute xd

[@VGMO17]

Simon "the anti gatekeeper" d'Entremont One of the best resources on KZbin, I've learned a lot from you

[@Mr.Zen_73]

a great saying I heard early on from a pro photographer was 'I date my camera bodies and marry my lenses'. So happy I listened to that advice when building out my kit

[@goldenfrog6EsCoSes]

Great! Thanks for sharing.

[@ElliottHurst]

So, perhaps you are saying stick with micro four thirds. Ok. Please suggest a next camera to upgrade from my lumix g6 thank you if possible x

[@BGTuyau]

Aside from the quality of Monsieur d'Entremont's advice, it remains amazing that someone this accomplished shares his considerable expertise at no cost to such a wide audience.

[@bonsaipiper3773]

That's cause the vast vast majority of people won't make a living from this type of work. Same reason pro athletes share tips. Sharing the info is not going to hurt them. Again, cause even if most people put these tips into practice most still won't make a living from photogprahy alone.

[@ouwantsomeofthis]

@@bonsaipiper3773pro athletes don’t just share tips to the masses. They put together camps or personal sessions and charge lots of money. Sure they might show a tip for the camera as PR if they are being interviewed but not have hours of video footage freely available to anyone. I think that’s what the poster meant. But you are correct though it’s not really a threat. I can watch a video with Nadal showing me how to swing a tennis racket but that won’t make me a threat to him.

[@hannesnaegeli4832]

Dear Simon, you‘re not only a top photographer but also a great person. I enjoy everyone of your videos and you became a role model for me. I‘m turning 60 today an I‘m so greatful to learn new skills in youtube from so wonerful people like you are. Thank you and best regards from Switzerland, Hannes

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@peterdunne1717]

Simon, you are the reason that photography will appeal to more and more people. Your advice is second to none, while your easy-going manner is enduring. Never change and thank you so much for your dedication not only to photography but also to people with aspirations towards better photography. The people have spoken...and that's why you are so popular.

[@simon_dentremont]

Welcome and thanks!

[@Twobarpsi]

I've done all your tips up to #5. Next step is to start a Squarespace account! Used gear saved me so much money. I bought a basically brand new 5D MKII for $350! With my 70-200mm 2.8, 85mm 1.8, and 50mm 1.8 I can take great pictures!

[@simon_dentremont]

Fantastic!

[@peeweebarney]

I have a used 5DM2 with supposedly rebuild shutter. But I paid I think 500 usd and it is doing nothing but in the IDLE mode. I need to do Squarespace too! Regarding the lenses, I prefer zooms, 70-200 IL , 24-105 IL.

[@ian_lewono]

Fr, used gear is absolutely the way to go, I got a used 80D, 18-135, 10-22 and 50mm prime and all for under $800 and I'm extremely happy with the images I'm producing. Ofc if I decide to go professional I'll probably upgrade alone the line but for right now I'm satisfied

[@KiwiTimmy]

How are you liking your 5d ? I'm looking at getting one . No looking to do any working mainly kids and some park runs and some holiday photos

[@dedclownsRfunny]

@@KiwiTimmycheck out a compact mirrorless type of camera rather than a hefty DSLR. a used Olympus EM1m2 would be fantastic. Budget friendly, travel able, lots of tech, has stabilisation (meaning you have to use tripods less), loads of lenses available, easy to use… Don’t buy into the BS that you need more than 16mp if you’re not planning to print huge photos.

[@marcogutierrez9700]

I don't know if you're the best photographer out there, but that's not important. I keep coming back to your channel because your very well made videos support your eloquent discourse, making it easy to understand all the technical details and approaches to improve our photography. I enjoy learning from an educated person that knows how to effectively and efficiently convey his knowledge and experience.

[@srmrlr]

I took a 22 year break from photography. Oh, wow, everything changed. A good friend dragged me back to photography last year, loaned me a spare body and lens. I finally bought my own kit, all used, and am relearning to use it all. I WANT to do it all. But know I can't. Trying to find my niche is a bit of a struggle in my 60s... I was a Navy Photographer, but spent half my career in the maintenance and repair side... Good advice, Nothing on it. Love your videos...

[@2dogs1guy]

My name is Bacem. Born in Tunisia and raised in France, i'm now 26 and this video is extremely important for me. After i lost my father, 6 years ago i finished my Law Studies because it was really important for him, but i never forgot my dream : Explore and show the world how my eyes and soul see it by photography, documentaries and writing. In August 2022, i walked across Tunisia to find my father's grave to celebrate the end of my studies and to make official my goal to become an explorer. And for now 4 years of working to be a professionnal filmmaker/photographer/writer, i do believe in my dream. But sometimes, it's just so hard to think that i'll be able to reach it. Especially about money, that can leads me into doubts and lack of motivation. Watching your video helps me keep going and focusing on my goals. Merci beaucoup Simon.

[@simon_dentremont]

De rien et bonne chance!

[@2dogs1guy]

Merci Simon !!

[@wanderwithdaniel]

Keep going 💪

[@fastswimming]

As someone who has been photographing for almost 2 decades, these are amazingly thoughtful tips.. To anyone starting out, take notes from every one of Simon's videos!

[@Phillydrumsimc]

Simone, I don’t know who left you a bad comment, but I have to tell you you’re one of the most pleasurable channels to watch about photography. Thank you very much.

[@iShootWild]

You should be hired as a photography professor in a college and a motivational speaker in photography clubs! You are amazing!

[@dandomine]

I think people watch you because you are a great teacher! The best photography teacher that I've found on youtube yet!

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you!

[@goldenfrog6EsCoSes]

He is, indeed, an excellent teacher.

[@allengray568]

This whole video speaks volumes, but the bonus tip is key. This world certainly needs more people that are a joy to deal with. Thank you sir for promoting that message!

[@simon_dentremont]

Well said

[@MurrayVader-xp8iv]

I shared this video with a lot of people that are talking about doing photography as a business. I've been there done that and have had enough. I just turned 70 and just want to enjoy the outdoors and capture moments in time.

[@fabve5488]

One of my favorite tips from this video was to practice , make mistakes , fall down and get up again. Amazing.

[@mapgrrl]

I’m a Photography Student and I’m leaning towards portrait photography but none of us are really quite enjoy your videos and I find the instruction helpful. I could say that you are also a portrait photographer, but your subjects are fast moving wildlife, and your studio is nature.

[@stormtastic7083]

dont plan on going commercial but still watching the video, your videos are the best!

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad you like them!

[@clivemilner]

I was an advertising photographer for 19 years. The pleasure goes out of the hobby, when you turn professional

[@ardnfast]

​@clivemilner yes, an often overlooked point 👈 Some people should just enjoy the hobby but then there's others who will benefit from this video.

[@boatman222345]

Excellent tips and advice for those willing to pay their dues to become a professional photographer. But don't make the mistake of thinking that to be a good photographer you have to be a "professional." Years ago I tried my hand at professional photojournalism. It didn't take me long to discover that about 85% of my time was spent getting assignments and about 15% shooting photos. And even then the photos I shot were often not images I wanted to shoot but rather ones editors wanted…and many editors like safe and normal images that they are confident their subscribers will be comfortable with. Not exactly a prescription for creative work. Last but not least many professional photographers would give their eye teeth for the freedom amateurs have to photograph subjects that interest and challenge them. Rather than having to focus on "making money" and "pleasing clients" an amateur can focus upon what interests them. And there is a lot to be said for that!

[@kennygo8300]

I still shoot most of my portraits with a D700 and a Nikkor 85mm 1.8D lens. It's hard to replace something that I know will work.

[@cj60wilson]

Simon, you are truly Blessed, not everyone can do what you does, the way you explain things is quite easy and straightforward. I'm blessed to be able to learn from you.

[@mlentsch]

The "mistake making" or totally "blowing" a shoot are the best learning experiences. I've never learned so effectively or quickly as when I screwed up a professional shoot. Embrace failure and improve. Thanks, Simon - you're awesome.

[@simon_dentremont]

The burned hand learns best,they say.

[@mlentsch]

@@simon_dentremontIndeed. I love that aphorism. What's more - I heard it here, first. Thanks, Simon!

[@quirkworks4076]

Pro shooter for 35 years here. Outstanding advice and wonderful channel, Simon!

[@carmenfissenden2530]

In retirement , I adopted the same principle when putting together my present system. This was something that cost very little in real terms and four years on I have no regrets . Knowing your needs and understanding those requirements to making a concept a reality . Today software matters greatly

[@gusartivanlastimosa1516]

You have no idea how big of an impact your videos are on my journey to learning photography. You are an amazing person!

[@simon_dentremont]

That is awesome!

[@anneniven2445]

YOU are always my inspiration for no nonsense advice and inspiration. And you make these videos for free. Thank you!

[@simon_dentremont]

You are so welcome!

[@katieswonders8249]

I've only just started watching your videos and already learned a ton. I've been into photography for at least 10 years now doing all kinds of things and recently I learned the hard way how important it is to have a mentor. You said you received hate, then I'm here to tell you that I am the one you helped. I recently upgraded to a full frame and saw that my sharpness is off. It wasn't because of the lens nor because of the camera. The problem was in the camera holder (myself that is). Love the content, stay awesome!

[@samue1991]

The more time you spend shooting and improving BEFORE making big purchases/gear upgrades, the clearer your needs will be and the better the new gear you choose will be suited to you and your needs. It's easy to get excited at the start and spend too much on new cameras and lenses that don't end up being as useful as you thought they might be for you, and then you lose some money selling it on the used market. My film camera collection is full of both cameras I use all the time, and ones I almost never use; and shooting more with my first cameras would have guided me towards the gear I use the most before spending the money on the ones collecting dust on my shelf

[@samue1991]

Also, the best part of watching this channel regularly is that the outro "I know you can do it!" mantra has a cumulative positive effect when you hear it every few days 😂 thank you for the encouragement!!

[@simon_dentremont]

I love it!

[@jbtubman]

There is a lot of wisdom in this video. Sometimes you find your specialty; sometimes your specialty finds you. I brought my camera along to church events like ordinations (my wife is a clergywoman so she attends these regularly) and posted the images to social media. This led to commissions to cover events like synods. But I didn't set out to make that my focus; I thought it would be concerts and sports. One never knows!

[@WisePhotographyForYou]

Five years in now, and you are spot on with everything; and, of course, wish I knew it 5 years ago. Thank you for these reminders!

[@renees8262]

Small and medium sized business accountant. Spot on advice that really applies across business generally and not just photography. Love this so much!!

[@bernardreinhart6828]

totally agree - this could be a valuable lecture in start-up/entreprenieurship course at a business college

[@KINGROUCE]

I have really enjoyed those tips and I will surely apply them to my daily practice. My favorite part was «Be someone who people want to spend time with»

[@melsamar2314]

All these positive comments make me think the commenters are bots. But nah you're just a really good teacher! 😊

[@simon_dentremont]

haha too kind!

[@HarryLewinASR]

Great video. I aspire to be a quality amature, now, in my retirement. As a young man, 50 years ago, I was expert with the technical aspects believing that to be the key to great photography. This was blown away when my friend's kid brother took an absolutely stunning photo of a horse-drawn wagon with a box camera. The composition was perfect telling the story of a tired horse, driven by a tired man slowly pulling a tired wagon. Luckly the focus and exposure were perfect as well. The lesson was painful.

[@jsmdllc]

You are one of my favorite professional photographers on KZbin that I listen to regularly. As a medical doctor I can attest to your final point possibly being the most important point in building up a brand, that is if you treat people like family with respect and care and professionalism they will choose you over somebody who might technically have a better skill set. This is true in every Industry I think.

[@guermeisterdoodlebug7980]

Decades ago when I knew little about sound systems, but buying my first stereo, an audiophile friend said buy a rather basic receiver of good brand without all the bells and whistles, then put the savings into the best speakers you can afford. I suppose he dated his receivers, but married his speakers. I believe it was good advice and analogous to cameras and lenses.

[@muccica9598]

I couldn't care less about cameras and stuff, but I really like to watch videos from this guy. In the ocean that is the Internet he is a rare one that is not irritating one single bit. And he seems to know what he is talking about

[@simon_dentremont]

Too kind!

[@fredandcj8681]

I have already gotten back in touch with my love for amateur photography after watching just a few of your videos. I really like your simple explanations for what can be more complex photography concepts. So many professional photographers have their heads up in the clouds and seem to enjoy talking over your head to emphasize their superiority on the subject. You don't do that yet know a lot! I do admit that your videos are so information packed that I feel like I'm drinking through a firehose. But, that's the beauty of KZbin, because I can replay videos for years and learn something new each time. Keep up what you're doing, please!

[@tiegelzangenbob1348]

Thanks Simon! Great tipps! Best is the bonus tipp. By making my clients feeling comfortable in front of the camera, appreciating their actions and showing them pics during shooting from the display, I got so good feedback and build up my local reputation. People enjoy my presence with the camera, and that is one big reason why they recommend and book me again. Besides that, I hope my pictures are also ok 🙂

[@jim9404]

Simon, thanks for another insightful video. Here is my tip: when starting out: Keep a photo diary of what you learned after each photo shoot. Start with what you were trying to accomplish, the gear and settings you used and then what results you achieved, good and not so good. Everyone makes some photographs that did not work for themselves. Those are learning opportunities. Analyze the photos and write down what might have caused the result you got. This helps me improve technique by identifying areas where I need practice (like panning), improve my choice of camera settings for speed, aperture, white balance and focus mode, and improve my composing skills by slowing down and working the subject or scene a little more. Then as I watch your videos, it is even more helpful because I can watch with a purpose and pick up a lot more from them. "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear."

[@elvinlawcc]

Every thing starts and end with a thing call ATTITUDE! A person with good attitude will be love by many people! Just like you my friend! Cheers from Malaysia!

[@kingart23]

Best part about photography is that at the very beginning when you are just a hobbyist you don’t have to justify costs of anything. At the moment I have extremely good KIT, all bought used. Was taking pictures at the Nike event on Friday, quite a few people thought that I’m the official photographer:))

[@thenodiggardener]

You may not remember, but last year you gave me a recommendation about the canon M50 as I needed a dual purpose camera, so I looked into it. When I did, I was lucky enough to find a US company that also ships here in the UK, and were amazing at listening to my needs. They actually built me a custom bundle for the R50 at less than the cost of getting it direct from canon, & even though I'm still learning its niggles I'm loving it. It's definitely more me that is the issue than the camera. I don't want to be commercial, just better than I am today. I watch you, & keep looking at your work because it keeps me inspired to push on with that. If you are the 7000th best photographer, I don't know the 6999 other photographers that person has placed above you, so that's all that matters to me. I'd gladly sit listening to you talk all day. Thanks for taking the time you do to help the rest of us. It matters.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks very much!

[@callandick429]

Just be careful - I don't know if it's still the case, but there used to be an issue with grey imports, where Canon, and most other manufacturers, wouldn't recognized the warranty if it wasn't purchased through an official Canon UK distributor. Even if the company is a Canon distributor in the US and will ship to the UK, if it's not an official UK distributor it could invalidate any warranty. Not that I would expect a problem, it's just something to be aware of. I echo your comments about the channel, always great advice, and I'm actually following the tip to buy used kit at the moment!

[@thenodiggardener]

@@callandick429 Yeah, I'm aware. I agree on the second hand tip though. I bought my first 7D & kit second hand. I still love it, it's just too heavy for my hands, & not great for video. I'm sad for it that the new kid has it relegated to 'not in use' for now.

[@shayzohar9078]

I love you so much, not only your work, the way you explain photography , edits, the business, and so much more, you really care for your audience.

[@lengt001]

Hi Simon. Always learning with your video's. Great job done. As a retired one (69 years old now) for me I will stay a non professional, but like to make foto's and video's for fun. From Januari 2023 I use the Canon R6 Mark 2 with the RF 100-500MM 4.5-7.1 L and the RF 24-105 f4 L and like the set. Foto's and video's I place on Facebook and KZbin for fun. The second thins is when one is in the field, one meats simular people with the same interess. Lots of contact have been made. Also in Canada (Ottawa) who took us to there Park for bird photography. We still have contact with them on Messenger, e-mail and Facebook. As I always say "Join the world and have fun. Life can be short." Greatings Leo

[@fcastellanos1]

humbleness at its best.I don't just enjoy the way you share your knowledge, in a way that's impossible not to understand, but your humble way, always friendly, always open to different point of views instead of trying to impose your own. love watching your videos either for revisiting things I already new, learning different point of views or learning new things. cheers from the dominican republic 💪

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thank you

[@robertmuzikar1760]

Join a serious camera club! Great way to network. Enter their competitions. Buddy up with someone and shoot at different locations. Go on their shooting trips. Always carry a camera or quality cell phone! Practice then practice some more. Know how to use your camera controls without looking! Read books and watch videos! Go for some fantastic lenses! Starting out, you may want to do some pro bono work! I shoot photos for my church web site. Did a couple weddings for some needy folks (practiced at location before the wedding).

[@simon_dentremont]

great tips

[@chrisb2129]

Differentiating yourself and finding a niche is definitely a key thing. I differentiated myself when I got started by developing a good print routine. Tons of photographers posted online. Few went the extra mile to print. I found it really turned heads to me when I could pull out a print to show someone, something they could physically hold and examine, while other photographers could only hand over a card or point to a website. As a disclaimer, I'm not a pro, just a hobbyist, but I did get a reputation of being the print guy and got some paid opportunities directly as a result.

[@myfakeguuglaccount8307]

Power move: professional photographer teaching and inspiring people to compete against him. Simon is the best! 💪

[@NerdAffiliated]

What’s funny about the hater comment, is I think we’ve all thought something similar at some point. It’s natural to wonder why you’re not doing as well as the next. But you’re right. It’s all about bringing your best self, helping others win, and having fun. Once again, you put out another great video!

[@Mariner1460]

Love the bonus tip! While I've never met you, I can tell by how kind and supportive you are through your videos that this one tip has been a big part of your success.

[@simon_dentremont]

You are so welcome!

[@halfsourlizard9319]

I'm a hobbyist photographer, but 100% agree about lenses over bodies. Shutters eventually die, new bodies come out with more features and better sensors... and lenses that are decades old still bend light competently.

[@Davidesrajohn]

I know I'm late to this video, but I want to add to the general positive sentiment. It's so refreshing how to the point, useful and concise your videos are. This is what all of KZbin SHOULD be like. I don't even mind the Squarespace plug when the rest of the content is so densely useful.

[@kenville1429]

The bonus tip is 100% and applies to all types of work.

[@northernsky6117]

I bought Canon 1D mk Iv 26000 shutter count for 450€. And my lens for wildlife is used Canon 300mm 2.8 non IS for 1000€. Canon 1,4 mk ii teleconverter for 150€. Total zoom available is about 550mm with that combo. I know its old stuff, but its great to use and fantastic pictures. Thats what I use until they brake. All equipment is in good condition.

[@RamaSivamani]

The hardest part of tip number one is on a personal artist level you can start to feel bored or unchallenged creatively if you are not exploring outside of your niche. So I would niche down for business but use your personal work to be more versatile and explore other niches for the purpose of feeding your creative soul. Maybe even create a seperate website or social media channels for the sake of sharing your journey and explorations. This way you have an audience for your commerical work and that's for getting more paid work and a seperate audience for you as an artist and that's for building your artistic legacy.

[@ShinobiDiabolik]

What i do most is night time photos, and other skills, like panning, short exposure, long exposure, are intended to complete and compliment the night time photos, but night time, light, play with light is my main niche.

[@colinhutchison7834]

Great advice, I started photography quite some time ago and found encouragement in the ten thousand hours rule, if you want to get good at anything be prepared to put in the necessary effort. That said, finding a good mentor can help shorten the journey. Learning from others has helped me a lot.

[@KevinWhite-s4d]

I have been doing performing arts photography for about 10 years now. It started out as me just taking pictures of my daughter during dance recitals and/or musicals that she was in. It then expanded to me offering to take pictures for everyone in the studio since I was already doing it for my daughter. I am just now getting to the point where I want to charge for my work. At this point, I have a small base of clients (generally ones that know and have worked with our family). I plan to slowly expand that clientele in the future. I do have an issue right now of wanting to expand my equipment, and create more of an online presence. That being said, what I do not have is a shortage of images to help promote the business side of it.

[@BigDoggonewild]

Keep it simple. 1 camera and 1 lens. Read the manual of the equipment, I know it can get confusing so go on You tube look uo the topic and find the best source for your question to get answered. Learn the basics then practice until you master them. If your new this will take time to gain experience. Once U understand the controls of the camera and lens then and I believe only then is it time to experiment and break the rules to create your own style. This also goes for photo processing and editing. I'm glad I learned with film cameras which my favorite was the Canon AE1 Program with 50mm lens I bought at a pawn shop for $175.00 with Canon Speed Flash around 1990.

[@DarranRobertson]

I just bought a Panasonic LUMIX G7, that came with 2 kit lenses. My only focus for now is getting to understand the manual operation, and my preference whilst learning is to take landscape shots. I love your videos, they are so informative and helpful. Thank you.

[@Jmememomo]

I subscribed to this channel 2 years ago and I did not regret it. Such an amazing content creator/photographer 👌👌

[@kaxndr1674]

Having been a corporate and agency creative who chose photographers to hire and work with, what you say is so true. You want a good photographer who is easy to work with whom you build trust and a rapport. Even more important though, is you have to be reliable. Show up on time, be ready to start, deliver what and when you say you will. That is critical. I always had go-to photographers that I could count on. I'd explain what I needed and they'd make suggestions and we worked as a team to get the best results.

[@mmiYTB]

The advice to buy optically better lenses with less performing or maybe older well performing body is a good one. In case anybody has somebody to check for the second hand stuff, second hand is a great way to get more bang for the buck as most of the quality lenses are made to last and tougher bodies can also work a long time. Most of my hardware was a second hand purchase. I'd add for those willing to explore reviews of lenses for the selected system (or to select a system!) can find out there are few lenses in every system that typically give quite much bang for a quite low buck, these may be a good additional purchase (for Canon these typically were some of the older primes, e.g. 35/2, 50/1.8, 85/1.8 and 100/2, also the non-L 100 Macro). The reviews are beneficial to find out the optical technical peformance of the lenses. Some high end lenses may be quite bad and some low end lenses pretty good for their prices. The tests are sometimes called "measurebation", as they don't cover an usefulness for a particular purpose one may have, but they are still an useful general guidance.

[@agoldfisher]

Good tips. Thanks! I especially like the attitude that it’s best to specialize rather than being mediocre at a bunch of things. I’ve heard that before but it’s a great reinforcement of a top tip

[@c73w]

Simon you are actually one of the best photographers in quality of photography and photography lessons I know, even better than many photographers who are more famous than you and their photos are shit especially because of their editing like I don’t know what’s the matter of people nowadays like they don’t really know what is a good photo because they know nothing about photography, for this reason I heard a professional photographer saying that he doesn’t care about putting effort in photos on social media platforms 🤷🏻‍♂️ he will use his best gear and experience only for brands and projects 😢 just an example why bothering to share videos in 4k on youtube and at the end most of the views are mostly on 1080p, don’t know if my idea reached you

[@sylvainlapierre3245]

Merci, Simon. I was lucky enough to purchase 3 used cameras with low shutter count, (Nikon D7100 crop sensor, Nikon D800 & D850 full frame) and 3 very good used lenses from Facebook Marketplace at a great cost. All cameras also had battery grips. Just want to thank you for getting me back into photography. Your videos are so educational and I'm having the best time going out shooting photos.

[@NickWeissMusic]

Without watching the video, and being a fan of Simon’s, I offer this advice: if you’re looking to work as a pro, go used full frame, and used everything else. If you’re a hobbyist, you will never need any more than a crop frame and good lenses: and buy every single thing used.

[@vstev86]

My best tip for anyone starting out is to subscribe to this channel. What an absolute gift it is!

[@simon_dentremont]

Too kind!

[@goldenfrog6EsCoSes]

I am not and have no desire to be a professional photographer - for me, it's a much-loved hobby - but I always enjoy and learn from your videos, Simon.

[@JustinTime662]

I'm glad to have found this channel a couple of days ago. I've already learned a couple of things that are already making a difference in my content. I can't wait to learn more here and see what results I come up with. Thanks!!

[@maciejszulc8019]

Like my favourite mottos of Francis Drake "Sic Parvis Magna" - Greatness from little beginning. Works in so many things. Keep up good work Simon!

[@andrewcrisp9391]

Many, many years ago when I was thinking about starting photography as a hobby, I knew a professional photographer. I asked him about what to buy to get started. We had a chain of shops in the UK called dixons and they had miranda cameras. It was in my budget range and he said that it doesn't matter what the body is, it's the lens that matters. I bought that body with a couple of tokina lenses and got a lot of good shots.

[@josefpre]

This content is amazing. Instead of watching so many KZbin videos you need to just look at Simon's videos and you are good. Like manual using auto iso. That one is a banger. Thanks Simon

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thanks!

[@raoufosullivan]

I started with a Canon 80D second hand and two lenses, sigma 18-35mm 1.8 and Canon 50mm 1.8 Absolute steal for the money !

[@tdawg719]

I will also add that certain genres of photography have a bigger market than others. For example there are probably hundreds of thousands of people world wide that are full time portrait photographers, while there are probably only hundreds of landscape photographers that make a living full time from selling prints alone. Landscape photographers have to supplement income with workshops and social media and brand partnerships. (As you touched on).

[@Ericbjohnston5150]

To start photography get a film camera and glue the function switch to manual. Learn what shutterspeed is, what iso is, what f-stop is and what they do. Learn composition. Learn how each lens mm affects the view, compression. When you get decent, move to an automatic camera. Above all don't expect automatic settings to do it right all the time.

[@georgestubock5070]

I feel like I can crush this.

[@dalloiselle7274]

Great leaders lead by example. Thank you for being such a leader in the field of photography.

[@CharlesCooper-o7i]

WHAT! 7,000th?! You might be the best. You certainly have to be in the conversation.

[@washingtonradio]

Great advice, especially about gear and not buying the top of the line body and buying better lens

[@n0rwid359]

All your videos and friendly tips were my great motivation to improve my photography and get confident. Thanks to you, I'm already starting to earn money on hobby that I love. Thank you a thousandfold! 🖤

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

I am having fun with an inexpensive Bridge Camera I bought used for $200. 50x optical zoom with a tripod and I am happy with my wildlife shots here in Alaska. Eventually I will upgrade to a better used camera, but for now I'm learning and having fun with a inexpensive camera I don't care if it is raining or dusty.

[@luzr6613]

My best tip for starting out in anything is to avoid the trap of conflating the idea of 'Professional' with simply securing remuneration. 'Professional' is also a Standard - a quality of output or performance. There are no shortages of people who are mediocre at whatever they do to earn a living but are, nevertheless, graced with the appellation 'Professional'. And no, The Market is not a reliable mechanism for consistently sorting the wheat from the chaff, and no, Meritocracy is not the dominant principle in determining success. Focus solely on continually raising the quality of your output as an end in itself - you may, if such things even matter to you, find that other benefits will flow from that.

[@StevenGrant_Photographer]

My best tip.... it's a deep dive... you'll think you have it and you're ready, but your maybe and more so likely not. That is going to happen a lot. You dont have to invent the wheel but you do need to know how it works. practice the camera from a technical perspective. over simplified because you'll have to learn all the different characteristics to get a photo. It's simple once you have it technically. Learn the deep dive to take a photo to a print professionally. This is where the artist comes in through and is really the most important aspect. Composition and Balance and Contrast. The people proficient at post processing a image do really stand out. I am a get it in camera right first person, color contrast everything. Its a National Geographic Style but that is not what is in the galleries.... it's a combination of both. Shot and Post. Lastly. being successful really if you have all that, your acumen and your work in combination. the analogy of hitting on all cylinders works well with photography.

[@scotth7129]

I have no intention of becoming a professional photographer, but I really enjoyed this video. Good practical advice. As a professional in another field, I'd only add - HAVE FUN, and of course be careful about making your hobby your job. It can backfire. Finally, I you don't mention much about the financial aspect of becoming a freelancer, e.g., contracts, setting up an LLC, tax implications of 1099 employment (in the US), etc. That of course is an entirely different video. But really - great practical advice. I enjoy all your vids.

[@SheilaFerguson-b7k]

Not hard for me to see and understand how you have climbed the Professional Photographer’s ladder! I have watched many of your video’s on KZbin, and I have never been disappointed! Love the bonus tips! What is equally important is your friendly down east attitude that shines bright! I say keep up the great work, although you have already aced the Professional Photographic Market…don’t loose your charm 🎉❤🎉

[@simon_dentremont]

Wow, thanks!

[@willthetrucker7613]

You don't have to be the best. You're good enough to teach me! I have several of your videos downloaded for my upcoming flight to Costa Rica. I'm looking forward to that flight being a good learning experience. Thanks for all you do.

[@Goapurva]

Hey Simon. Firstly, Your videos are amazing! They feel simple and are very informative! Secondly, I am have been wanting to get into photography and I have no clue about storing camera gear over long periods of time. I dont want to spend the money that I have on a good setup and not on anything to store it properly. So a camera storage video will be immensely helpful! Thankyou!

[@dymone4894]

My best starting out tip? Be patient, keep practicing and do not set unrealistic goals. I decided I wanted to start a business and learn photography over a year ago with a very basic understanding of how to take a picture and the only camera I had was my father's old Minolta Maxxum 7000 that did not work and a couple lenses. I bought a used Sony A6000 and an adapter to use my Minolta lenses. Took a couple photography courses at the community college. From then on I took my camera with me everywhere. Practicing always, watching videos on lighting, composition, editing. I waited and kept my eyes on the prices of used gear. Bought a "Like New" condition A7r III and a few more lenses. Now just a little over a year later, I feel ready to launch a website and start working my way to being a professional. But I'm not giving up my day job just yet. Patience, practice and Goals.

[@katyeah1213]

You grew into being one of my favourite KZbin channels for sure!

[@jorymil]

It sounds like there are some parallels between becoming a professional photographer and a professional musician. There are a lot of younger musicians who think that practice on its own is enough. Well... you'd better know your instrument, but people actually have to like you too: you'll be putting in long hours with bandmates, and as long as you can get along--even if you're not the best musician--you will work. There's probably not as much of the ensemble creative process as a photographer, but it sounds like getting along is crucial there too.

[@silverrob67]

Practice, practice, practice! Well said sir. You have a new fan.

[@reckle556]

This may be the most useful video I've seen on KZbin to date. Thank you so much Simon

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

That bonus tip though 😂 I know it's true because it makes perfect sense and other professionals say very similar things (Omar Gonzalez comes to mind, he has the perfect personality for an event photographer). This is probably the most daunting part of the learning curve for many people I imagine. Even I as a social worker, even though on paper I excel at dealing with people in all sorts of settings, would be scared in a situation where the impression of me as a person is a big part of what I have to depend on to be able to make a living. All the more important to stress this point though, and thank you for doing it! I bet many aspiring pros aren't really aware of the necessity of excelling at the combined extremes of solitude (e.g. while out in the wild shooting, while processing images etc) and "bedside manners" (while dealing with clients and social media) which many professional photographers accept as a natural part of their business.

[@romiemiller7876]

Amen on used. I have 2 Nikon D800 bodies, a 14-224mm and 24-120 lenses. That gives me constant. Focal length from 14-120.

[@BrianTheCameraGuy]

This is great advice Simon! Thank you for always being motivating and honest with you audience.

[@simon_dentremont]

My pleasure!