The Surprising Truth About Toxic Gear Talk in Photography Nobody Tells You

[@ixoye56]

Social media is toxic, it's sad really.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Social media has proven a problem.

[@jutubjestzlem]

@@ForsgardPeter Though... "social media has a proven problem" would also be true :D

[@michaelajoseph6856]

Though not all is bad. We can communicate and share what it matters to us more than ever before. There are platforms and platforms.

[@SPetersonImages]

It's why I love Vero. A true photography social media place for photographers with a wonderful community.

[@dominiclester3232]

I think you will find Peter, that it’s the camera that’s taking the bad photos and I just keep needing better gear to solve the problem...

[@ypebanbung-michael8865]

Peter, this video confirms to me why I value you so much. Without sugarcoating your words, you are the best KZbinr for me.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank You very much.

[@thomashilmersen711]

Totally agree with this. People seem to take these "camera reviews" seriously, not understanding that they are simply commercials, and we are bombarded with them.

[@AguilaDeOnix85]

I swear, rumors sites and forums are full of the most miserable people on the planet. It's a bunch of people are more ready to consume than actually use a camera. Anyhow, I watched you in your Olympus days and still watch you because your insights on street photography truly interests me and I never really do that genre that much. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

[@vermis8344]

Agreed 100%, with every bit of this comment!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you both!

[@xms111]

Well spoken. I've recently unsubscribed from several forums where toxicity was nearly instantaneous with every post. I ignore most gear articles and spend my photography hours on improving my image capture capabilities. Thanks for the post.

[@TristanColgate]

One thing that I think contributes to gear obsession (and partially caused by it), is the instant zoom to 200%. It's hard to get out of the habit of instantly zooming in on every detail. Most of us take pictures to be enjoyed as that one complete image we framed with intent, not to archive that pixel level detail for all time. If you critically analyze all your pictures at 200%, there will always be better gear. if you go for the natural viewing distance, megapixel counts and lens sharpness are almost entirely irrelevant. (wildlife and sports may be exceptions, maybe gear really matters a lot more there, but Michael Kenna can use a $20 holga, so I probably don't need a Sony A1)

[@ForsgardPeter]

That is true that many pixel peep the image 200% which is totally useless in most cases.

[@IsaacLevy-h5v]

Peter, thank u for your honest, open heart video, I wish everyone starting this path will be that lucky to see this video

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@TL-xw6fh]

Well said, Peter. I'm sure quite a number of "photographers" will be disappointed by what you are sayig and disagree with you. They will have numerous justifications to rebuke you, but you are right. There is no such thing as a bad camera or lens these days, it about what is appropriate you the genre that you are interested in.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@borderlands6606]

It's useful to look at photographic awards from 15 or 20 years ago. See what photojournalists or landscape photographers were doing with gear that would now be considered obsolete. Then look at our latest camera, and ask have we made anything as good on it.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Very good point.

[@christopherbonis]

Matti made a video similar to this several weeks ago and I’ve never enjoyed his content more than I do now. It’s so refreshing to return to real photography over the endless gear-talk, even if it’s the latter that pulls in the most views.

[@MythMakerMusik]

I only shoot on 700 megapixel large format Sonyblad cameras through Leicalander lenses. I have taken SEVERAL photos of my breakfast. Best $200,000 I've ever spent.

[@ForsgardPeter]

:D

[@vermis8344]

🤣

[@mikelovett2677]

Well said. Yes it is toxic. I stopped watching YT channels because of the gear focus. I kept those few channels that focus on photographic art. Gear talk is boring, often toxic and ultimately pointless. Art of the other hand…

[@jthorn5782]

Unfortunately, too many people believe their opinions are facts. I've appreciated your tutorial and review videos as I've been working to gain a deeper understanding of my camera and what I might consider upgrading. Keep up the good work.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@FootballFinn]

Thanks! Speedy recovery!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you very much!

[@petehagen9294]

I found this video SO refreshing. So many on the internet are constantly selling, and I see why they want me to buy more gear. You are so right! If we look a great, iconic images from the past, it's the moment, emotion or story that's important in the image, not even the sharpness. ❤❤❤

[@ForsgardPeter]

Well said.

[@domenicoavizzano8841]

I totally agree!❤ Thanks for the video!.. Great hug! D.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@kriskros6374]

To me this is great maturity Peter. I agree with you 100% with what you said here.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@LadyBovine]

I got into photography and camera gear, mostly MFT only last spring, and lately I've gone from swapping, buying, comparing lenses, reading about lenses and cameras, nerding out about corner sharpness and rendering, pro capture, in body stacking, and this and that, longing for a an OM1, a G9II, or "what about an S5!" to realising the lenses I have, and the E-M10II is all i actually need (though a weather-sealed e-m5III wouldn't offend me). Even if it's not great for video, and even if I miss focus on the occasional action shot. I'm not selling action shots, so the size and cost isn't worth the mostly dormant "what if." I still enjoy being a little bit of a child and swapping and trying new gear, but I consider that a hobby in itself. Great video! (If I may say so, this style and length of beard suits you very well.)

[@sh1209macro]

Great video and well said. I’ve pulled back dramatically over the last couple years with purchasing gear. Any camera made in the last decade is more than capable.

[@JamesMeeks-rv8lb]

Great video and I totally agree. It’s sad that people feel like they have to tear someone else down to make themselves feel better or to justify their purchases.

[@dolphabernethy9723]

Thanks, Peter! Words of wisdom.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@comartse]

My first job was at a commercial photo lab. I was eager to learn more about photography and saw hundreds of people's photos daily. Seldom something struck me. A few times, I saw something that caught my eye. We also had an older employee who had caught on an old camera with a bellows and a simple lens. It was for 120 films. We talked about camera gear, and I smiled a little when he showed that camera to me. I thought of my nice Pentax camera. However, he also had other cameras. Then, he showed me some color pictures developed at our lab-images he had taken of his daughter in a garden or a park with that old camera. The images spoke directly to me, and I then realized that knowledge and feeling are more important than equipment in producing good images. It was a humbling experience.

[@TheParadoxDestroyer]

Thinking new gear will solve problems of technique and creativity is like a violinist thinking that playing a Stradivarius will make their scales be in tune. Learn the instrument you have.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I agree.

[@ThatMicro43Guy]

Hi Peter, I hope you are well? I’ve struggled on my channel over the past few months as I was doing too many gear reviews. I looked through my photos from the past 5 years and I really couldn’t say that there were any ‘good’ photos. They were all images produced to accompany the videos. I wasn’t inspired any more in either stills or my videos. I needed to get back to taking photos for fun. I was becoming a hypocrite as I always end my videos with ‘have fun with your photography’ but I wasn’t doing that myself. i seriously thought about giving up. Unfortunately the web is a harsh place in that I can get 10 times as many views if I post a review as I do talking about photography itself. It’s so difficult to break away from doing reviews. Over the Christmas I took out my old E-M1 mk1 with the 17mm f1.8 lens and I loved it, I even got some nice shots I was happy to enjoy myself. I didn’t make a video, I didn’t try some new gear, I just went out and shot what I saw…and enjoyed it using my 11 year old design 16Mp camera and a basic but nice lens, and I enjoyed myself. I’ve even stopped trying to keep up with the new releases on the rumour mill. So Lumix have 2 new cameras out which are effectively the same as their predecessors but with USB-C sockets…who really cares. As you suggest the days of big upgrades between releases are gone. These are the best cameras we have ever had yet someone will still criticise them. You have a rant, I’ll have one too. But by the sound of things we are not so much ranting, rather we are introducing some sanity back into photography. Looking forward to seeing you on Rob Trek’s get together again this year. Unfortunately I’m on a different day from you this time (I’m on this coming Sunday) but I’ll be watching them all. My very best wishes Brian.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks Brian! Well said. I know that gear reviews are something that attracts more views, especially about new gear. Sifting my mind as a KZbinr helped me to get back on the track with photography. Looking forward to the Live Streams. I sure will be watching the stream next Sunday.

[@gordon3988]

Well said!

[@MateuIsern14]

Absolutely right! I still remember when I was younger I used to be so frustrated because some of my favorite photographers (landscape and nature, which always been my favorite genre) would not talk about the gear they used. I had to investigate which cameras, lenses, tripods they used... only to find out gear wasn't what made their photography great. After many years I learned to stop worrying about gear and just go out and shoot. I accept my gear has flaws, but they are definitely not the main reason why some of my photos don't work. Thanks for the video, a much needed insight.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for sharing.

[@mavico-w6u]

This was welcome straight talking and not a rant. I get why some people obsess over gear, but not why this turns into a reason to have a go at people who do not have the latest “must have”. At the end of the day what matters is that we take the best possible photos that we can. Part of this is learning to make the most of the gear we have - this includes making the most of its limitations. Thank you Peter - hope you are back on the streets soon.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks. Yes, recovery is going as it should be, at least for now.

[@experienceolympus7368]

I’m still using my Olympus EM1 Mk 1, E1 4/3 DSLR and Minolta Dynax 7D. They’re probably considered old tech now, however love shooting with them.

[@thorsrensen3162]

people are mocking cameras with samll sensors like they have a small sausage.

[@albertsill4142]

Thank you, Peter! I totally agree.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank You.

[@marioplus321]

Agree100%! It reminds me of a situation I mentioned I owned C.f2.8 lens which was right away commented on - "you should buy a f1.4 one,it's better." No , it is not for me. I simply do not need it. Cheers!

[@ForsgardPeter]

...and when you have a F1.4 lens someone will tell you that you need a F1.2 lens!

[@kevinkelly6524]

I always enjoy your videos. Thanks for your honest commentary and opinions. Unfortunately every community has gear snobbery, fomo, and spec chasing. That’s the part of a lot of peoples hobbies that they enjoy, more than taking pictures, fishing, or whatever. I’m glad you brought this video out. Maybe they will get out and enjoy the actual hobby more

[@SPetersonImages]

A great video Peter and so true. I just picked up a nine year old Panasonic Lumix GX85 as a carry everywhere camera to go along with my Lumix S5. It takes fantastic pictures and unless you're pixel peeping you had a hard time telling the difference. It's more about the photographer than the gear.

[@sstokoe2301]

I think you’re a great guy……and I always appreciate your videos and words of wisdom!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you very much.

[@nigelalexander1594]

I’ve learnt my lesson with gear! It doesn’t make you a better photographer. Thanks Peter I appreciate your sentiments regarding toxic gear talk.

[@jutubjestzlem]

Yes, so many people fail to understand this. In the end, it's the photographer that takes the photo, camera merely records it.

[@LensCraftedMomentz]

Peter. This is probably one of the best videos about photography out there and you nail many of my own observations/experiences. I was also a victim under GAS and constantly comparing cameras and lenses searching for the perfect combination. Its too much to share my own journey but from the late 1990 until today I have both scaled up and during the latest years down-sized my gear. Never been more happy and more productive than today within my own photography just owning one decent camera and just a couple of lenses.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@KeithJohnson.1]

True! Though I will say I’ve never regretted buying camera gear that reduces the time spent editing to get images I’m pleased with. My goal is to spend more time behind a camera than in front of a computer. Occasionally I’ll rent lenses or bodies to see if they’ll support that goal but even renting is expensive. So I rely on people I respect, like you, who share their perspective on gear to help me make more informed decisions about products. Even as I work to improve my technique with the gear I’ve got. While manufacturer’s advertising makes it seem like each new product is at least worth considering, it’s gear reviewers who keep my GAS & FOMO under control. It’s easy to understand why photography content creators get frustrated because gear reviews get more views, likes & comments. But I’d like to thank them for all the money & time I’ve saved by Not buying gear after watching their insightful reviews.

[@KeithJohnson.1]

Maybe I should have included in my comment that I’m after wildlife mostly.

[@ForsgardPeter]

My frustration comes from the fact that people get lost in their photography when they fall into the gear trap. It is true that gear videos get more views than photography centric videos. I have made my share of gear videos, but I wanted to shift my goal towards photography. it is a lot harder to get the sam amount of views, but I have managed to bounce back. It is a slow progress.

[@stephenbrasure4331]

I agree with everything you've said. As an amateur, I know I'm guilty of buying some gear I didn't really need but I think I've finally gotten to the point that I've got more than adequate gear for what I do and just need to enjoy and practice to get better results. Online gear talk is definitely filled with a log of absolute garbage and I don't understand how some "photographers" want to spend so much time engaged in pissing matches about camera specs, megapixels and all the topics that draw so much attention. What I do appreciate is you and other professional or skilled photographers that share their knowledge for free. There have got to be so many amateur photographers such as me that have learned so much due to the kindness of other photographers. I look forward toward more of your videos that are about photography rather than gear, although you have been in my gear research in the past.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you very much.

[@sijodee]

People are too easily offended now by very little and brand loyalty adds to it as well. Narrow minded is probably best way to describe it.

[@Original_Old_Farmer]

Thank you for saying that it is talent, not equipment. I am more than annoyed with creators talking about what they don't know about. Why? Most often it is because of free gear. I bought just recently a Fujifilm X-s20. because my older camera is starting to fail, it is 20 years old. For lights I use work lights from Harbor Freight. I make sure they are at 5,000 to 5,600 K in color temperature and so I get a 10,000 lumen light that is dual power for $40. I use translucent plastic cutting boards for light deffusers. My main camera bag is a Porter-Cable tool bag I got about 30 years ago. It works great. What I am doing now is learning my new camera. I agree, once you reach a certain minimal quality in gear, it doesn't matter. At the very least fancier gear may make it a bit easier, more often it makes it harder to do your work. I'm not afraid of buying expensive gear, if it SERVES my purpose. If you do have to buy new gear, make sure it won't argue with you and forces additional expenses to undo where the new equipment is deficient. As an example, a camera without a fully articulating screen is worthless to me. I'm not going to spend an additional $1,000 to undo what is to me, a bad design. We need more videos like this one. Good show! Be safe!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for sharing.

[@geonerd]

One member of a local photo meetup introduced himself as "I'm Steve, and I shoot a 5Dmk3!" (Of course, his pictures were crap!). I totally stopped going after one particularly absurd day when two camps got into a _heated_ exchange over which photoshop filter was better. By creating so many niches of bodies, the camera and equipment manufacturers have done a superb job of creating FOMO and GAS anxiety among even casual shooters. It's a train wreck!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for sharing the story.

[@dwbonbon3370]

So true, so true

[@goldendoggy8904]

I have pictures hanging on my walls that I've taken with an iPhone 13, a digitised photo taken in 1984 with a Yashica FX-D and animal photos taken with an OM-D E-M5. All look great and mean something special to me.

[@ElevatedThreat]

Very good advice for those just starting out in photography. A dose of reality!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@IanBrowne-x6n]

Bloody gear! Once I learnt photography is all about the light, the quality of the light, and the shadows from the light; gear (and settings) become less important because the more gear = more confusion = more frustrations = more gear = loss of interest.

[@pappgyula2541]

Dear Peter! I know what you mean! I agree with everything you say. Unfortunately, I know it myself. I too managed to fall into the trap you have described. I too became a prisoner of the equipment. As it is much easier to own than to learn to photograph. One becomes weak and goes in the direction of easier resistance. What you said made me realize that I have to learn photography to find joy in it. Thank you!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Glad you found it usefull. I hope you enjoy photography and get rid of G.A.S.

[@PaulMrPKcom]

Terve Peter, I actually watch your channel mostr for inspiration and ideas for photopgraphy. I have both Nikonm D850 and OM-1 with lot of lenses (that I dont use very poften, but it is nice to have depending on what mood I am or what kind of work I need to do). Of course all the gear dont make me better photopgraper, but some time makes my work easier. One of the best images I have taken that I like, was done on my first DSLR Nikon D70 and kit lens :) Newer is not always better. I miss those days, now there is to many choices that distract the the "art" of making photo. Beside occasionally work I prefer now to use some old, often manual focus lenses and play with them.

[@ForsgardPeter]

That is true that good gear will make things sometimes easier.

[@georgemiloshev1886]

Hi Peter, Thank you for your excellent video. I always enjoy watching your content, but this one, in particular, stands out as one of the best examples of how to share your thoughts on photography. It's clear, purposeful, and emotionally resonant. I couldn’t agree more with your point about how the best gear-if such a thing even exists-doesn’t make you a great photographer, let alone a good one. Your emotional honesty when talking about this really struck a chord with me. I’ve had a similar experience throughout my life (I’m probably around your age), constantly battling the false illusion that owning the best car, the best clothes, or any “best” possessions will make you a better person or a better artist. But I think these battles are already lost, especially today, when so many people are drawn to catchy yet misleading slogans (like those we see in U.S. presidential elections, for example). So, is the case with the new photography gear. Ultimately, what remains is the pursuit of doing our best work-whether it’s photography, painting, physical exercise-and finding happiness in that. I see you’re successfully doing just that. Thank you again, and I wish you all the best!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you very much for the well formulated comment.

[@FootballFinn]

You are 100% correct! I believe that you need to reach the limits of your gear before you "upgrade". I am always amazed at images that some photographers can produce using entry level cameras. I have seen plenty of people with great gear and they cannot create an image without someone telling them what to do and how to do it every time they use their camera. Keep up the great work with your channel. I wish you a speedy recovery.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Well said and thanks.

[@RandumbTech]

Well said Peter. It’s a delicate balance between new gear and practical considerations. Most cameras from the past 10 years are good enough, but for the hobbyist who can afford it, the newer gear can help quite a bit, especially for hybrid use. Personally, I like living in multiple systems that best fit my needs depending on the situation. I completely agree about the forums - sooooo many gatekeepers that say terrible things that they would never say face to face. 😢

[@hafzke]

Great one. Let's be real here: the loudest about gear in social media are mostly those who only shoot brick walls, the back of their garden, some test patterns taped to their wall not caring about their camera being in line but complaining about the lens being decentred or even worse just shooting down the balcony (bonus points for being in the shadow and shooting into the sun or vice versa). Then there are those who just want to tell others how to behave, like get this or don't get that because reasons. It's getting tiresome. Sadly even on Emilys FB site those discussions blow up quite often. There is one picture I made many years ago and it's still my favourite. I made it with the DMC-FZ 30. And I owned way better gear at the time (to stay on topic...) but this was with me when I was taking a walk with my kids. Funny enough it was a cat picture. A few years later I used VSCO cam for some older pictures, this one included. And because I still liked it I ordered a print 90x60 cm. And everyone who sees it hanging in my living room likes the composition and the storytelling. Meanwhile on social media it's like you said: why did you use this camera, don't you have better gear and so on. So I hid the informations and now it was which camera did you use, which film simulation did you apply (they saw the filter and assumed I shot it with my Fuji gear), no way this was shot with m43 (nope, even 'worse'). But... every now and then someone mentioned composition, storytelling, light... the stuff that really matters, so there is still hope I guess. But again, thank you.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I totally agree.

[@markadsit]

Peter, this video is an excellent example of why I follow you! Despite being a recent convert to OM System MFT after many years as a Nikon shooter, I've come to sincerely appreciate your advice and insights on photography itself regardless of system. Yes, I also appreciate your reviews of MFT lenses, but I am finding I learn most from posts like this one!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

Fortunately for us gear is all pretty darned good these days. I am old enough to remember an Africa trip in 2007 where the Canon guys were able to shoot, gasp, 1600 ISO and us Nikon D200 guys could only manage ISO 400 for usable results. Gear mattered a lot more back then in digital's infancy.

[@ForsgardPeter]

You are right it did matter much more back then.

[@cavalloi56]

Excellent considerations that I absolutely agree with, but today the digital world is distorting people's minds, marketing and software dominate people and distort photographic art. I am 68 years old and I have been taking photos for 40 years, I have never felt so uncomfortable as I do now. Congratulations for the video

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@we.sch.7591]

Buying things sometimes is a substitute for not having time. For example: I don't have the time to read, but I'm buying books, because I wish I had the time. I don't have the time to go somewhere taking pictures, so I'm looking on the internet for new gear ... At least this is something I have observed about myself.

[@liveinaweorg]

My newest camera in terms of when it was built is my EM1 MKII and the lens is the 12-100 F/4 Pro. both from 2016. Does almost everything I want to do. I also have a Mamiya RZ67 from around 1995; a Voigtlander Bergheil from around 1915; an MPP Mk VII from the 1950's and a wooden half plate from around 1900. I love the different experience each one offers. The best investment in my photography in the last two years is a pair of Diemme walking boots.

[@1957PLATO]

Excellent points you made there. For street you need only a basic camera and a keen eye.

[@johnyutzey6504]

So true Patrick. The cameras I use the most are from 2013-16, which are perfectly adequate for what I do. I would benefit much more from a better eye and more practice than I would from better gear.

[@1957PLATO]

@@johnyutzey6504 you have an excellent eye as it it, John, and I really love your style. I too am regressing to older digital cams, like my ep l 7.

[@johnehman8685]

Good points. And I wish the Internet offered more talk about why people love their gear and how it encourages their enthusiasm for photography, even after years of using it. We need more positivity as an expression of artistic passion and insight!

[@ForsgardPeter]

You are absolutely right.

[@chrisbrown6432]

Peter you are voicing the advice of a lot of photographers on KZbin and I totally agree with you. I do value all the gear reviews you have done in the past. I have some old Olympus gear and I find they are an excellent reference material. I love your new approach to doing photography related content now and enjoy seeing your photographs and your thinking behind your choices and what you are showing. Thank you very much.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@devroombagchus7460]

Thanks a lot, Peter. I keep needing videos like this. 🤤

[@peterjoseph3839]

Word, Peter!! 👏👏👏👏

[@cmalc8]

You can make a truly GREAT photo with an almost free Lomo. Photography and gear are really two separate things.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Very true!

[@backpack.studio5257]

Thank you for expressing your thoughts. Every phenomenon can be viewed from different angles. A singular point of view is also not always beneficial. You cannot ignore the fact that photography requires gear. However, photography also requires craftsmanship, an artistic mindset, and a desire to discover the world through a lens. There are also a variety of reasons why pictures are taken, such as news, personal memories, artistic goals, meeting business demands, and so on. With so many options, there can never be a single device or approach that is best for every situation. It is great to hear you have experienced personal growth and development through photography! I do not like gear videos or videos that tell you exactly what you should do. The worst thing is not to respect viewers' free will. I hope you avoid falling into this trap and continue to create inspiring and truly educational content.

[@ForsgardPeter]

You are absolutely right. There is no one right gear for everyone. If you have watched my videos you know that I respect the free will of photographers. The thing I am talking about and worried is the obsession of gear instead of being obsessed about photography. We need gear to photograph and knowing about is a different thing than the motivation being driven by the gear.

[@arthvr-arts]

True words. Gear obsession always bored me. I´m happy with my Sony Alpha 100 from 2006 and even working with a cheap 8MP smartphone. And what cameres did the masters of the past use? Are their pictures of less quality than the pictures of today, because the "gear" of those days wasn´t that "accomplished"? Just look at some "old" photography and you know the answer.

[@distomos8118]

I concur. Today I’m actually longing for more simple gear that sets me free to concentrate on photography. I don’t need the gimmick overkill and miles long setup menus.

[@camerasutra247]

I’ve been harping on this for years on my channel and now it’s becoming very apparent the skill level just as in there however people have $10-$20,000 worth of gear in their bag absolutely waste of money. Your spot on learn the basics and then buy the Ferrariwhat they like to do is buy the Ferrari first and then learn how to drive. Great job.

[@paddywigglesworth7652]

Wholeheartedly agree with you Peter.

[@DanaPushie]

I completely agree. I own two cameras with enough lenses to suit my interests. Now I only buy gear suited to new, specific, long term projects for which I have no alternatives. One of my cameras is a four year old Canon APS-C workhorse, the other, a 10 year old Fujifilm which I keep to help me get back to basics and for fun. Photographer first. Gear collector, no.

[@jasoneldridgephotography]

In a world where you can be anything, be kind. I like gear, always have, but I care more about photography. So many grumpy people in photography…. Makes me sad so I endeavor to talk about the good stuff. Great video, thanks for sharing!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@TimS-pg5pv]

A timely video Peter. I have found myself getting so sick of the tribalism and downright aggression with comments on some you tube channels, so much so that I don't watch them anymore. We've all read them. Brand v brand, this manufacturer can't focus, that doesn't allow 3rd party lenses, blah blah. A lot of those commenting probably just set their camera to auto and really know very little about the technical side of photography let alone composition and storytelling. Thanks again.

[@robmcd]

Please tell me what brand you use so I can choose to thumbs up your comment or thumbs it down. Lol

[@johnvienna3422]

I've been waiting a year now for delivery of a certain Fujifilm camera. It's a great exercise in learning not to care too much about gear! (And if it ever does arrive, then it will surely be disappointed in my photos. Yes, I did mean to write it that way round...)

[@walterxplinge3867]

I have been guilty of getting more gear than I really need, because I thought I needed it for the genres I was shooting. I started to notice some of the lenses were not really being used as often as I thought they would. The work I produced seemed to be what I wanted, so why have I got gear that I only use occasionally? I got some software which would analyse the EXIF data and let me know, among other things, the focal length each image was taken at. The software graphed the results and I found that some of the lenses weren't needed, as the focal lengths were covered by other lenses in the bag. Sold the ones I didn't use, or very rarely, and saved both my bank balance and my back, as the camera bag got very much lighter. Thank you for your videos, a refreshing change from a lot of others. And wishing you a speedy recovery.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@theWZZA]

Peter, you are RIGHT. I like the current content you are making. Photography is mostly about the photographer.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@lerssilarsson6414]

Exactly! "2004 vs 2024 camera - Can YOU Spot the difference?" -- Tin House Studio. My untrained eyes can not spot the difference.

[@jokopp-dk]

Well said, Peter .👍👍

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@GeorgeSmyth]

One needs to know that the camera they are using is probably light years ahead of that which was used by the old masters. They started with knowledge and experience and used their camera as a tool to create their art. Great obsession starts at the endpoint, which is obviously backwards.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Well said.

[@Joh146]

I´m photographing since nearly four years. My start was with a second hand Sony A6000. In this time I got clear for my needs of weight, size and price the APS-c system is more than enough. It allows me to shoot from milkyway to macro and the most beetween. I´m happy to found my gear and I´m done with the search of the lenses meanwhile too.

[@mikebreeze6291]

It’s refreshing to hear this.

[@Raist3db]

Thank you for making this video. It's true. I have indulged in it too in some forms over time, and it's become more and more obvious how useless it is. I heard someone say "Why do I care about what someone I don't know over the internet is saying? Doesn't make sense to me, I don't understand it." I have been collecting as of a few months back now links to places that talk about photography. I killed my dpreview account a couple of years ago as a step to de-tox. Still need to change a couple of habits but working on that.

[@awpqq]

I agree about gear talk being toxic and almost irrelevant when it should be the images we are talking about mostly. I was then quite amused to see 100+ comments where people talk about their gear!

[@jeffreylane7647]

Hi Peter, I was never much into gear videos unless i was looking to get a new piece of equipment. I usually wait till i can by it used or refurbished. I love your videos on street photography, you have been a big help to me.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Cool, thanks!

[@jarmokarkkainen7621]

I admit it, I've spent a lot of money on all kinds of gear over the years, but that's just me. Your mileage may vary of course, but I like to try different things and if I like it I'll buy it. If I can afford it 😅....Buying second hand is also a good option that does not break the bank. I don't think I'd be content using just one system and using most of them will also teach you about the pros and cons in every system...as no system is perfect. Good points about gear, though and a healthy reminder of keeping yourself level-headed when thinking about it.

[@ForsgardPeter]

It is about the healty attitude towards gear and understanding that a new one might not be something you need. I can understand the lure of testing different gear. I have done that in the past.

[@lizaheider]

Thank you for this!

[@lawrencelunsford6028]

Back in the early days of digital I had prints made up to 20x24 inch for clients using 6MP DSLRs. I just got back into photography a few years ago after a LONG break. I have one mirrorless camera (Fuji X-T2) and several Nikon DSLRs that are between 10 and 24MP. I like using the older cameras but I think it depends on the genre of photography that you do as to what you need. Today's newer cameras surely make it easier to capture fast moving subjects but photographers had to learn how to do it with film cameras and manual focus lenses. Use what makes you happy. :)

[@gilbertb.bmj3321]

Bonjour Peter, très bonne analyse. Entièrement d'accord avec toi. Mon dernier achat le fujifilm X-M5 avec l'objectif kid et le 27 mm 2.8 après comparaison avec le Rico. Le l'ai acheté pour son écran orientable, sa légèreté en voyage, discrétion en photo de rue, ses performances techniques. Il est devenu mon boîtier principal ! Pas besoin de 40 millions de px pour une photo de 1920 px sur le côté le + long. Merci pour tes vidéo, cordialement Gilbert.

[@ForsgardPeter]

C’est un bon choix. J’aime aussi l’écran inclinable qui manque au Ricoh GR3x.

[@tjerkheringa937]

I have nothing to add to this. Spot on! I used everything from Agfa Clack, Olympus OM1 film, Nikon F1, Leica R5, Hasselblad CM500, Mamiya C330 to several Olympus and Panasonic mirrorless, Blackmagic Cinema and Sinar 4x5 inch. I really don't care if I shoot on my iPhone.

[@Steve-b54]

Absolutely spot on Peter and as for forums I don't go on any these days.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@petercameron4380]

I have way too much gear, but for the past three weeks I’ve been using one camera and one lens (Fuji X-Pro2 with Fuji 23mm f/2). Very liberating not having to think about what gear you’re going to use. And it makes you more intentional about what you’re going to photograph. Excellent rant.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Having less gear on you makes you concentrate more on the photograph itself and think about what lens to choose for each photo.

[@androo4519]

I got into the trap of buying new gear all the time some years ago but eventually settled on what I have. Maybe I found my level. When I look at photos I took 10 or 15 or more years ago with 'lesser' cameras, I never think about the IQ, just about the subject or the feeling or the memory it gives me. Sometimes it surprises me what the camera was because some of those old photos look too good to be from an old camera. I do find technology interesting, and still watch reviews, but if I'm ever tempted I just think about how learning a new camera all over again would be such a pain. I see reviewers going through all the unfamiliar menus and my heart sinks. The temptation passes. I know my camera like the back of my hand and get great results from it. My only fear now is that I will break it!

[@kingston24-x2h]

Thank you for a great video. I have fallen in to the gear trap and am walking myself back from it. I. have a great system and almost bought a second one.

[@GGdeTOURS37]

Exactly what I tough! I'm pro and still using my Canon Reflex 5Dmk2 and I LOOOVE it! I don't want the numeric visors (horrible for my eyes) nor 45 nor 24 mps ('cause i love my 30mp) and don't need all those focus gadjets because ... MY CUSTOMERS ARE HAPPY WITH MY WORK TODAY AND I'M HAPPY WITH MY CAMERA AND LENSES! So TY to make me feel less alone!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for sharing!

[@albertjurina2557]

My first serious camera was a canon DSLR released in 2006 that I bought in 2008. My next camera was a canon DSLR released in 2012 that I bought in 2013. I just got rid of that camera in 2024 and bought a mirrorless camera released in 2016. My clients don't seem to care and only other photographers ask me what I gear I used if they like a photo. You are spot on.

[@ForsgardPeter]

You seem to have a healthy approach to gear.

[@TimGreig]

I have a bunch of film cameras from 50 years of photography interest and a 12mb DSLR. Recently bought a basic (few controls) Instax: I don't think I have ever enjoyed photography so much as I am now.

[@TimvanderLeeuw]

I have had a period of really obsessing over gear... It's less now. Recently a photographer in KZbin said: As a (professional) photographer, your job is solving problems. Apply that mindset to gear and the rule for gear could be: buy gear when it helps you to solve a problem that you have, and you know how to solve that problem with that piece of gear, and you cannot solve that problem with your current gear or cannot solve it efficiently. And then when you know what gear you need for that problem, watch gear videos to find what bit of kit is best for you.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Well said. I agree.

[@matshagonius6022]

One more time You made my day.. 🥰🥰🥰

[@ForsgardPeter]

Glad to hear.

[@mikkiscott9995]

Great video Peter. I agree with you.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@pekkahyvonen7823]

Olipa helevetin viisasta puhetta, en voisi olla enempää samaa mieltä! Words of wisdom here!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Kiitos.

[@bamsemh1]

Full framers just need to learn to accept that smaller sensor does the job, and the bullying will stop. Medium format isn't doing anything against the fullframers, like the fullframers does against crops. But sadly, ai is the worst.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Photography is not about sensor size.

[@bamsemh1]

Exactly ​@@ForsgardPeter

[@andreasrochow5170]

You are so right!

[@robertkiss2350]

I do belive that everyone should get past the new gear obsession part of their career or hobby. I spent a lot of money to do various type of photography and now I don't take pictures. But eventually I'll get back on track and I'll enjoy again the great selection of mine.

[@liverpoolk648]

Hi Peter....Liverpool Kev here again...Thank you so much for taking the time to talk so much sense when it comes to photography...I have loved HiFi all of my life and that world is also full of 'one-upmanship' and snobbish negative attitudes ...I always enjoy your insights Peter and hope you managed to read my last comments about changing lenses in the snow and cold and crowds of York Christmas markets and nearly disaster haha...Thank you again Peter...All the best....Liverpool Kev...

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@r423fplip]

The problem is we can now measure hifi equipment. Let’s be honest digital cameras are pretty much done.

[@RobertVE3VPL]

We reached the point several years ago where even the least capable digital camera is pretty good, but it seems to be difficult to get out of the habit of expecting more capabilities. I had to laugh at myself recently because I was online comparing the sensor noise characteristics of several cameras at ISO 25000. But I'm sure it matters to someone. I shoot Olympus m4/3s and took some action photos of cyclists in a dark forest trail at 3200 ISO. I used a bit of noise reduction with in-camera jpgs. They were fine and I think they conveyed the mood of the event. A dark forest appears noisy even to the naked eye after all.