What every photographer should invest in...

This week I'm travelling to Antarctica, talking about things I wish I had known when starting out in photography. Anything you'd add?
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00:00 Complete waffle
01:53 Things I wish I'd known

[@justin_hall]

I wish I hadn't spent thousands on gear I didn't really need. Sold all my Canon gear, bought a little Fuji and now super happy. Lovely video James.

[@jaughnekow]

If you view photography as a form of art, gear doesn't really matter. But for commercial use, I think it does.

[@MeAMuse]

For me, there is a reason we do it. It’s about learning and deciding what you like to shoot and how. I don’t mind that I have a bunch of gear. I have worked out which gear I like to use and when… and if I feel a bit uninspired I take out something I use rarely and turn it into a learning experience (and learning/experimenting make me inspired). Embrace the struggle :)

[@jaughnekow]

it is fun to play with different gear@@MeAMuse

The tyranny of manufacturers who want to sell as much gears as they can, helped by commercials. I highly believe in simplicity and low tech in photography, especially from an environnemental point of view.

[@rogerhampton2844]

Ditto

[@LivSee92]

Would love to hear more about your favourite photo books another day in another video!

[@diogomes26]

Same! I've been "playing" around with photography for a couple years, learning on my own and l would really like to know more on that subject!

[@Sir_Tobi_]

Im 15, been watching your videos for a while now, and I'm happy to finally say thay I've ordered my first camera! You've inspired me a lot and i really appreciate the things you've taught me. Goodluck with your future endeavors!

[@joshuamontgomery0]

Good luck, have fun!

[@Bobby_sprinkles]

Incredible news. Enjoy it!

[@18yearsoldnot]

Very kind words. Especially if you’re 15. You should start your own channel! It probably takes a few years and you have plenty of time

[@JackieDElia]

I’m so happy to hear this. Best wishes on your own photography journey.

[@thegrandtourist]

Congrats!! Now I would strongly recommend that you don't watch any product (camera/lens/etc) videos. Just enjoy what you have and perfect your craft :)

[@fairwayfrank]

My wife and I drove to Zion for a little walk around this morning. Yes, we are fortunate to live close enough to do this. While we were wandering around one of the slick rock hills she said, "That James guy was right this morning." Yes, we were fortunate to watch this episode along with morning coffee today. "When you are out taking photos you do notice more things than if you were just walking around," she explained. There you go, proof in the pudding, so to speak.

[@stevengangwisch1792]

Thanks again James! Fantastic trip to Antarctica yet again. To everyone else, if you're wondering if he's like this is person... he's exactly the same in person.

[@DavidFlowerOfficial]

I really enjoy these all over the place, whirlwind videos of yours. No idea how you manage it, but they’re always fun to watch. Have a good one 🖖

[@rooster68w]

The best advice I took from you as a beginner is to spend your money on travel and not just gear. My best photos so far have been with used gear from MPB and used the rest of my money for fuel to get up into the mountains away from everyone.

[@youngerbrotherpictures]

I questioned myself every time I bought a photography book for the coffee table. Looking back I'm glad I did and I love picking them up from time to time, they're definitely a little boost of inspiration!

[@micgent]

Create your own book, it will time stamp your process. It will be inspiring when you pick it up.

[@cmar6268]

The free flow over time approach of this video made it entertaining while being informative! Great job!

[@rogerhampton2844]

Absolutely agree on the first point. I never let anyone I consider to be a more experienced photographer critique my photos. If they give advice I’ll just try to do what they say and then I won’t be doing what I want to do. If someone likes my photos it makes me feel good. If they don’t, it doesn’t matter. As long as I like them.

[@stevekelly5470]

Great vid, as always. Keep up the stellar work. Thanks, James.

[@aaronbecker6646]

I was going to say, before the second part where you clarified, was that since I've begun photography, I observe my surroundings ten times more then I used to. I would even go so far as it's changed my perspective on my travel 100 percent

[@kiwikea2002]

Thank you for your thoughts - I go along entirely. In fact, I'd like to stress one of the points: I'm not making as many photographs as I used to (reasons), but somethings that's still around - as a photographer I learned to "see better". And I do this even when I don't have the camera with me. It's enhancing life so much.

[@kevinmcgreer9635]

6:50 100% agree! Safe travels.

[@tonykeltsflorida]

The Science is in books, the Art starts in your mind. The Photos are the balance of both.

[@artiedoc]

James ….fabulous video and photography tips to live by ! Photography is a passion that if harnessed properly can free one up to see the world with a whole new perspective! Spending time with you has given me encouragement to continue to enjoy it without the technical constraints we so often place on ourselves…BRAVO my friend ! Till we meet again ….

[@sicktry]

I must say I enjoy all of your video. They are... calming, and so seem my 2 months old think as well. Thanks, James!

[@pgy8863]

James, this was your best work. Thanks.

[@michaelajoseph6856]

Your videos are so relatable and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@wilfs1196]

Reminder of my first trip ( of 2) to Canadas high Arctic region in my younger days. Couldn't spell photography at the time & bought some kind of Canon film 35 mm pocket sized camera.I look back on those one lens shots occasionally & am quite happy with them since temps varied from 0C to minus 55 C. Camera always buried under my heavy winter gear. The summer trip ( no heat wave either) was better, but now with a single lens Minolta SRT ?? camera, still 35 mm film. Learned a lot of fundamentals by sheer coincidence & worth the trips.

[@Twobarpsi]

Flying into Santiago, after leaving winter in the northern hemisphere, is pure bliss!! I've done that several times 🇨🇱

[@lindakavanagh3729]

Totally enjoyed your insights. I learn so much from you. Thank you.

[@Joakimcomicscenter]

Your tips are alway uplifting on the view of being a photographer!

[@andrewmckinney3053]

Very enlightening, James! and thought-provoking (for me). Thanks!

[@videobyredjade]

Thank you

[@susanmeyer8885]

Loved this video. I was on the 2022 trip to Antarctica w you & Nigel. My husband and I are headed there in less than 2 weeks w Aurora. Weddle Sea & some of the side of Antartica we visited last trip. You have truly opened my eyes to seeing what to photograph in new ways. Thanks for the inspo!

[@lovelyperspective01]

Great content, thank you sir!

[@Tetra84]

Great video James. It was good to meet you on that Antarctica trip!

[@Raykenn1]

Excellent advice, thanks for posting 👍

[@davejolley6869]

Fabulous James can't wait for the next video

[@user-rr4vl3fm5j]

Great episode!

[@Catsandcamera]

Ever year I sign up for the arctic emails, then every year I see the price and internally combust. Would love to do it at some point, especially because I have a fascination with polar expeditions of the past, but I think I'll just have to live vicariously through these videos instead!

[@nielmorley7405]

brilliant video - thanks for sharing

[@gregcooper2719]

Love the point at the end about using only a prime to force yourself to really consider some shots. You did a video about this a few years back and I often head out with only my 50mm and it’s dramatically changed some of my photos for the better!

[@karlj.4798]

James... you are the first I've heard say it!! Your comments at 2:30 are spot on!! Hallelujah!! All you budding photographers out there take note... these are the truest words you ever hear. 🙌

[@cornwallkid100]

Thanks great video ...really enjoyed this 1 mate 👍👍👍

[@richardpenhardt6100]

knowing how you think about the process enhances . good.

[@costafilh0]

I try to balance that. Living life x capturing moments. I don't want to live life through a glass.

[@bernardjohnwright]

Great video and totally loved Borgen Bay that was great. Good one about the lens very true often I just go out into town with just the camera, one lens and a spare battery and just see what I can grab.

[@ourhouseuk]

Good video as always - I wonder if you can consider some intermediate or advanced topics @james, since much of your content is geared towards beginners.

[@Hangiinjohnny]

It’s gorgeous, one day I’d love to do one of these workshops

[@gerardneedham]

Nice teaser for more photos to come

[@qvarfoto]

I own one (1) photo book. Yours! I own way too many lenses, but I agree with taking just one (or maybe two for longer outings). The challenge is fantastic and you learn a lot. Looking ofrward to seeing the rest of your trip mate. Great video! Cheers

[@danielgoldberg2129]

I bought some decent equipment about 6 years ago and I still use it. I have upgraded one lens, a 100-400mm, but still primarily use the same 12-60 kit lens that came with my Lumix G85. I also just happened to have come back from Antarctica and I’ve been going through the 800+ photos that I took. Anyway, I was inspired to take this trip by one of your videos when you talked about hosting a workshop. (My budget restrictions precluded me from joining your excursion.) As always, I thoroughly enjoyed your introspection.

[@Rshawokc]

This is why I enjoy following you. :)

[@joycady8325]

Great video James!

[@probablynathan]

Great video James, Looking forward to seeing more of the trip. I agree about the Bellroy sling, works great for me but that lip just collects little bits of stick, leaves and other junk.

[@seanteague2522]

I agree re primes, I think most of all you can become a master of particular focal length, which can mean better photos.

[@rickreyn9242]

Great advice. You definitely have a bright style and I love it. Come to Florida , though, and try your luck. I'd be interested to see how you react to the walls of green, and only the bright sun in the sky.

[@sarahbatsford4791]

Antartica my dream. Love your videos, your knowledge & rambling😁

[@suew6307]

James, I really liked this video, good thoughts on photography. Thanks so much! I didn't mind all the scenery changes as we get to see parts of the world we may not get a chance to go.

[@video-carl]

I really think you've got a good seam with your current topics

[@ddsdss256]

Well said and absolutely correct--art only matters if YOU like it. If others do as well, that's just gravy. I do spend more time than I need in post, fully knowing from painting that the hardest part is knowing when to stop! Yeah--so easy to miss other things when shooting--that's why I quit shooting concerts. That said, I know I see many things otherwise easily overlooked because I'm looking for potential images. I so want to climb in Antarctica and Patagonia. Things look very different from up there (although the weather is extremely capricious and potentially deadly).

[@joostverpoort]

It's warranty James! Looking forward to the other videos. Thanks man

[@iandrury1542]

Great video as usual with some thoughtful insights, I just wish I could afford to go to one of the amazing places you've been to.

[@johnlocke7097]

Great video, good information.

[@88sstraight]

Artistry Art History Artistry Art History. Accents rock my world. Thanks James!

[@rlfisher]

Very engaging video.

[@stevezuze4885]

James popsys right on time

[@kqschwarz]

One of the things that makes Mr. Popsys unique amongst "landscape photographers" is his focus on manmade objects. It is one of the reasons I really like him. The other thing that makes his videos my favorite is his tendency to use self-depreciating humor. I would love to take a photo walk with him sometime.

[@karsnoordhuis4351]

I think the most useful camera bag for me so far has been my coat's pocket. Small camera+small lens = easy to carry. Makes me take my camera to more places without it being a backbreaking hassle.

[@benrowsell8275]

James your videos are ever inspiring and I’m wondering which camera you use to shoot your speaking to camera which flips front to back with the double click? Thinking of investing in an action cam for street photography and wondered what you use. Thanks so much for the wonderful content.

[@tompetersphotography]

Great video buddy

[@minus1db]

Oh James I’ve spent the last 8 months only shooting with an 85mm Prime, totally changed and inspired my photography

[@sophsaund304]

Really interesting video thanku

[@chrishowell5718]

"...an amazing backdrop..." (proceeds to apply the patent Popsys exposure formula that removes all the detail from the sky😂). Don't get me wrong, I find you style highly effective and appealing, and red hut, a few black rocks, and white snow blending with white sky is very evocative of Antarctica , but it did make me chuckle.

[@chrishowell5718]

More seriously, completely agree with point 8 that being a photographer helps you to appreciate what you see better. These days I'm rarely without a camera (even if only the one on my phone) but even if I can't stop to take a photo of, for example, the curtain-like appearance of the lights on the M62 as they snake up Saddleworth Moor at night in drizzling rain, I'm sure I *notice* how good it looks more than if I didn't take photos.

[@peteg330]

I think the stop constantly changing lenses is the best tip. Like you say, no good photos were formed in a camera bag. My favourite tip is 'the best views are not always in front of you, look behind on occasions'.

[@tomfoord8860]

Thanks for the tips - It's helpful to hear these kinds of things every once in a while. Meantime, wasn't that the award-winning Belgian ex-pat from Iceland Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove sitting next to Mads?

[@21jlxi]

The ship looked nice and comfy, I recently went to Antartica in the back of a Hercules, slightly less comfy!

[@user-nf4hd2rv3f]

hello James, very useful and inspiring, this video. Reflecting how you use techniques to produce a style or art of photography. As you state: this insights come now and you wished you had them earlier. That will afterwards allways be so. And you are glad the insights will continue to come and widen your experience. So try not to be too much philosopher, but pay attention to what you feel as exciting to photograph, explore further. I try too, using reflective moments to direct or redirect personal development as a photograhper. Thanks, Bert.

[@replicant44]

James you seem to have a lot of experience traveling around the globe, could you make a video talking about how you plan or organize these trips ? I would love to visit antartica like you did in this video but finds little informations on how to do it.

[@Realletsplaygrey]

I want to check out Antartica so badly.

[@karlburchill2704]

I enjoy shooting with my phone just as much as my Olympus OM-1 because you don't have to think about settings.

[@Gualdo007]

fully agree, I also find I take better pics going our with a single prime, 35, 40 or 50 mm. Great video as always

[@joshturner3017]

What are some photography books you would recommend?

[@RealBesty]

Always grateful for this kind of perspective. Oh, and I’man MPB customer myself now! :)

[@thenikhilray99]

You have been my favourite photography channel lately. 👏👏 Sold my Sony a6000 recently and been only shooting with Canon G7X III. 😅

[@hankroest6836]

9:00 Exactly. Why take (telephoto) pictures of things that are far away? To look at later when those things are even farther away? A lot is said about capturing a moment when shooting an event, but more should be said about conveying immediacy when shooting a place. Basically, 40mm = this place / this person; 50mm = over there / that person.

[@tysonator5433]

Great video, only down side is MPB the sponsor. I have used them twice and each time not a very good experience at all. The last occasion I part ex a lens for use one on the mpb web site only to find it had an error code when I tested it. After some reading of reviews I read this was a common issue with mpb not fully testing the gear, if at all, or the description was incorrect from the actual conditions. Also my part ex lens was knocked down on its value once they received claiming it had a scratch on the rear element. When The deal fell through and I asked for my lens back I had to pay FULL retail price for it from mpb, and when I did get it back I could not find any scratch. I used a macro lens and 45mp camera to hunt for said scratch, and strangely enough I did not find any scratch ! ! Problem when a deal with mpb goes south for the consumer it cost the customer in the pocket ! All mpb offered me was a £10 discount voucher off a £100 spend as their idea of compensation ! !

[@mikeyjhn]

I have a Bellroy 10L picked up at great price and really like it. Like you the front pocket lip is annoying but big issue for me is strap is too short. Am 6'2" and can't get it to sit where i like on my body. Contacted them but they couldn't help.

[@billwinward9324]

“There’s a penguin colony up there. Let’s go and look at that”. Result: a picture of a solitary penguin.😂 This is why I follow you, James!

[@Realletsplaygrey]

Do a video showing your most inspiring photo books that you own.

[@SoyJoseMora]

Hello, can you recommend a photography book that has inspired you throughout your journey as a photographer? Thank you.

[@ashstubbings2603]

Hi James! Hope you're well? On the subject of bags, I'm now using one of the best bags for my gear that I've ever used, and d'ya know what? It's not even a camera bag, (well, not specifically anyway.) and the other wonderful thing about this bag, is that it cost a grand total of £4.99! 😁😁 I do love a bargain, me! Off to the Photography Show at the NEC on the 18th! Can't wait! I'm like a big kid. It's all I've talked about for weeks! 😂😂 By the way, you have more Jam than Hartley's! Patagonia is one of the places in the world I've most wanted to visit!

[@washingtonradio]

I find when I have a camera I'm paying more attention to what is around me and I see more opportunities. Sometimes it irritates others who are oblivious to what's going on (another rant about that later). Also, I agree with #1, my criteria is did I execute the shot I wanted or not, if I did then it's a good shot otherwise it's a bad shot.

[@brassybusiness]

Where did you get that blue/orange neck strap from? Also fantastic video as always.

[@ATF_CA]

1 - There's no such thing as a great photo 2 - As much as good photos don't exist, perfect photos don't exist either 3 - Books as an educational and inspirational investment 4 - Bag that you will actually use 5 - Take a moment to observe with your eyes, not your viewfinder 6 - Look up and about 7 - Importance of testing assumptions 8 - Art of photography > Science of photography 9 - You notice much more with a camera in your hand than when you don't 10 - Using a prime can be much more fun and engaging

[@rafikz77]

MVP

[@MSmith-Photography]

I do have photos that I would deem nearly perfect, but not necessarily because I feel that I did everything right, but that I just happened to be in the right place at the right time.

[@markgoostree6334]

I think a little more quality time behind the lens, trying to keep the view in focus. I am ready to get out and find some fun sites here in middle Tennessee. When I look at my stuff I decide if its framed to suit me. Is the right part in focus to suit me.? Is the exposure good? Very few of my photos are seen.... even my sons rarely see my pictures. With that said... I should watch the rest of your video.

[@PhillConnell]

There are no photo-opportunities in your camera bag. Perfect.

[@grapesodatravels]

Looking forward to seeing the trip. PENGUINS!

[@pematamang9268]

You and Simon d’Entremont are great teachers of photography. Do you pay or do they sponsor or work Antarctica Tourism Board? I do have a dream to go there as a photographer

[@boundaryscience]

I had an English professor that would say, "you aren't really reading unless you have a pen in your hand," and I think the same can be said for cameras. You aren't really seeing unless you're seeing with intention. Cameras push you to wonder, wander, and pay attention in a way that simply walking aimlessly or to a destination have difficulty doing.

[@goldfinch2283]

Well I think that is only partly true. For me it is important that my clients like my work, otherwise my photo business will not survive.

[@Crossmainst228]

Do you use your camera to film? Or do you use a go pro?

[@JxJammy]

What are your sunglasses?

[@RH1812]

Fancy seat eh. Best way to fly. That Patagonian lake ( or sea) view…

[@craigwilson1604]

James where do I get that neck strap from, I can remember you mentioning it before just can’t remember the video 😂

[@RememberTheTrees]

I think it was an etsy seller.

[@ericathefae]

2:53 What??? That picture is awesome - the yellow curved line in contrast to the blue sky is devine! But I guess that just proves your first point though, huh...

[@BealeIam]

Great vid, I disagree about taking in the moment though. This is often aimed at photographers from non-photographers. I think as photographers we take in the moment more than anyone else. Subconsciously if the cameras at your eye or if you are composing the shot. A non-photographer moves onto a different moment or scene super fast compared. I will always argue this fact. I feel is photographers appreciate every scene, light, moment, nature throws at us.

[@nxmrjake]

I agree that photographers probably look a lot more at a scene than a non photographer. But perhaps photographers spending a lot of time looking for a composition aren’t absorbing the scene emotionally. Maybe that’s what James means. Like forming an emotional connection with where you are and just “being” instead of analysing and hyper focusing on a process of creating something from it 🤔

[@nxmrjake]

(Or he’s hinting towards a video coming saying he needs a break from YouTubing, like all the other channels 😃 )