Let's talk about "Image Quality"

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This week I want to talk about image quality, and how little it actually has to do with quality images. I also talk about an hour of landscape photography we got to do on the tiny Arctic island of Jan Mayen.
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[@nomadben]

As Ansel Asams said long ago, "There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept." I think that just about sums it up. Great video.

[@RitwikChandra]

Such an amazing quote by James “Image quality can be bought but quality images not” 09:56

[@michalkubecek]

Amazing... but not completely true. Many good photographers sell their images so quality images _can_ be bought. :-)

[@davidf6326]

More like blatantly obvious, I would say. This whole argument has been done to death.

[@MadsPeterIversen]

I love how we as a small group of photographers can go to the exact same place, only have an hour and get completely different photos! And yes! Image quality does definitely not equal quality images! :D

[@tubularificationed]

Especially for landscape photography, one can buy the cheapest cam of the last 10 years, as long as it has a reasonable pixel count 😉 (keeping in mind, that when an ophthalmologist says "you have 100% vision" or "your vision is average for mid-aged adults", that translates to "your eye resolves 6 (six) megapixels, when viewing a big print from a natural and comfortable distance, i.e. the print's diagonal". For people photography (either professional e.g. events, or private e.g. kids & family & animals), the eye AF was a HUGE deal recently, and gave reason for many to change brands to where eye AF is dependable. Eye AF might be one major reason why Nikon and Fuji are small brands (or market share losing brands) today? whereas Sony and Canon took the lead and try to out-compete each other.

[@munteanuiulian7427]

@@tubularificationed this is what I did, i'm an amateur, started last year by buying the cheapest Canon at the time, the EOS 4000D, and a couple of extra lenses. I've got plenty of good photos with it and a couple that i'm quite proud of. Would love a top of the range camera but mine still does the job.

[@hughwolfe1176]

It all comes down to how well the person behind the camera can see and compose with what’s offered up to them… The best equipment in the world won’t help if you can’t see.

[@AJYT_]

and they all tell a different story

[@davidf6326]

@@hughwolfe1176 'The best equipment in the world won’t help if you can’t see' - maybe not, but it will help in delivering what you see.

[@harrydeyong441]

Absolutely one of your best videos. Your analogy worked fine, and saying "you can buy image quality but you can't buy quality images" is spot on. And of course, your sense of humour.

[@leanderhoefler576]

Going by the record of James videos so far, I‘m pretty confident to say that the next video will be titled „Why I absolutely needed a 200MP Phase One camera“ 😂

[@davidf6326]

Ah yes, I think I know what you mean by that. After all, it's quality kit not quality images that provides the monetisation 😁

[@standard_gauge]

Hmmm I think Emily might have a view on that

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

"Image quality can be bought. Quality images cannot." Wise words indeed!

[@torspomedia5861]

That is very well put.

[@davidf6326]

'Wise words indeed' More like blatantly obvious, I would say. This whole argument has been done to death.

[@FTTPRO]

​@@davidf6326 - "...blatantly obvious, I would say. This whole argument has been done to death." What's your point? does it bother you; Do you hate it; Are you excited to explore more advanced theories and logic; What are you looking for; why did you comment this? Quotes can be presented in new ways or requoted at different times, this is why quotes become 'cliche' over years; But as we grow and mature, quotes can also take on different meanings. So, although you may be jaded by the topic, many people may be experiencing it in a new way or for the first time. Learn to have empathy, and not be so dismissive by shutting down someone else's appreciation for something.

[@davidf6326]

So you're entitled to an opinion, but I'm not. Is that how this works?@@FTTPRO

[@nealrantoul9831]

Excellent point and I agree 100%. I have been a photographer my whole adult life and for 30 years was a professor of photography at Northeastern University in Boston. I taught photography to literally thousands of students and would preach this same lesson: be less about your gear and more about the pictures you make.

[@heeltoeco]

The resurgence of film photography and more analog mediums proves that humans crave imperfection rather than "picture perfect" things. If film didn't have a recent price hike and I had the time to process (which I've done before - it's quite fun!) or local businesses near me, I'd probably shoot film often. I'm also a die hard audio enthusiast who enjoys vinyls and cassettes. Maybe I'm just an old soul...🤔

[@mikenofi281]

James, I enjoy your videos. I am a big fan. You describe what I have been experiencing over the last several years. Image quality does not equal quality image. The science behind the technology determines image quality, while quality image is the expression of the art of photography. While both are needed to create an impactful image, for most forms of photography, art trumps science. To sell cameras, manufacturers market improvements in image quality. They want us to become enamored with the technology. Unfortunately, the advances in image quality have reached the asymptotic part of the performance curve. This is why many photographers are falling back to using older cameras.

[@eliashermansson]

Looking back at my favorite photos I've taken, camera and gear has never been important. It's the story or feeling the image creates that made it a favourite.

[@martinfredriksson1544]

What an excellent video. I love you talking about this topic. Makes me feel good. That is a very good thing. Thanks.

[@Shawns_snapshots]

As a Bird photographer that absolutely sucks at landscape photography, I Love the way you incorporate birds into your landscape images!

[@michaelajoseph6856]

My first camera was a Nikon D60. I still love my images taken with it. You have some stunning photos from your travels. It’s a joy to be able to see them. Thank you!

[@alanguile8945]

We are always attracted to what we can buy rather than make. I had a very expensive tennis racket, beautiful set of golf clubs and walking boots that could get you up Everest. As long as I didn't need to demonstrate my prowess with any of them I was Ok! Quality images are the most elusive, my favourite image I have on my wall was taken with my phone!

[@PETERFRITZPHOTO]

I’m sure I won’t be alone in the comments, echoing your sentiments, absolutely. Excellent video, James.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Yes yes yes and then some. Appreciate the visual bribes as well. :)

[@CameraNostalgiaClub]

I've found myself enjoying images from old CCD sensors more so than anything else these past few years. I guess it's the feeling and look of the images, They take me to a certain place no other images really do...

[@emmanuelpower2439]

Like your approach to quality. More about seeing,😊 than the gear we use!

[@westdk6705]

Good morning from Denmark James!! 🙋‍♀🙋‍♀Stay safe !!

[@Sebbir]

Tjing tjang tjing lutillej 🇩🇰

[@genernator]

Spot on! Imagine obsessing over what kind of canvases, brushes or acrylics the master uses to create his masterpieces!!

[@harrykitch9239]

Totally agree that quality images are what we are all seeking. Some of my best images (in my opinion) were taken with a Minolta 101 on Ektachrome 200. Take care.

[@julieduncan1996]

I agree with you 100%! ❤

[@tristanrujano]

Honestly there should be way more videos about storytelling and the creative aspect of shooting/ composition/ vision rather than new gear. There will always be new gear. But the story you have to tell now someone needs/ would benefit them greatly

[@foxhoundslug]

"Image quality can be bought." But quality images can only be shot. excellent video!

[@kingnary9th688]

as a Norwegian, your pronounciation of Jan Mayen brought a smile to my face. great video as always

[@CurtGodwin]

Great video! As with most professions, there's a spectrum on which the process lies - with "science" being at one end and "art" being at the other. One can have a 100% understanding of how the settings, DoF, ISO, etc., work... yet produce boring (yet technically perfect) photos. On the other hand, one can have the best artistic eye and completely miss a shot because they don't understand how the technical aspects work to produce an image.

[@mynameisben123]

This is a great way to look at it. Completely agree.

[@wilfs1196]

I also concur sir. Damned if you can, damned if you can't

[@georgemason2472]

Great distinction. “image quality can be bought, quality images cannot” (Serene sp.)

[@sethie_shots]

Great video James I always look forward to your take! Cheers 🎉

[@JonBushell]

Well said. Where are the photos from that little Pentax?

[@Thunderbird1337]

The best photos can often be made if or because you are at the right place at the right time. Either because of dedication (e. g. standing up very early for the sunrise) or sometimes just pure luck.

[@filterfreephotography]

I love the images that I get out of my older DSLR bodies - D50, D300, and D700 - versus my newer mirrorless bodies - X100F, Z 5, and Z fc. Great video, James, and awesome pics from your adventure!

[@JeevesTCW]

Image Quality Vs Quality Images - Spot on, never heard anyone sum it up this way before

[@enigmabletchley6936]

Content Is King

[@susanmeyer8885]

This so resonates with me. You inspired me when I was on the Antartica trip in 2022 when I was introduced to your style. I now find myself drawn to man made elements in my images. I was really bored with traditional landscapes. Also currently searching for a smaller more travel friendly all in one camera that is weather sealed, maybe a Leica. Tired of dragging lots of gear on long trips. Thanks for your inspiration!

[@RobOfficial_SA]

the best video ever...the reference of land overs on the smoothest roads👊💥

[@Eddiesquid123]

A great subject matter, which I think we all agree on.

[@martinlennon4673]

Yes you hit the nail on the head 100 % ! Also your images are quality 👍

[@andymcgarty3099]

What a location. Great images. Totally agree about chasing improvements buy upgrading, but boys like their toys :)

[@johnclay7644]

good topic.

[@harryquinnc]

Having super high quality super sharp photos and still adding noise in post 😄😄 good video for reflection

[@David-ee9zg]

Makes sense to me. Well done James.

[@findermanimages]

I've just watched this after an hour scrolling the net for a Sony A7RIII. It's made me ask myself many questions! I've been watching your videos for many years and I'd say this is one of my favourites. No nonsense (well, a little 😂) straight honest talking. Good work.

[@jhaydnreynolds]

Interesting. You make a valid point.

[@nigelwest3430]

My local pub has a 1200mm x 800mm print of one of my photos that was taken on a Canon M5, someone who was a "Expert" once commented that the image was obviously taken on a medium format camera because the quality is so good 🤣 there is a lot of BS when it comes to sensor resolution, I have recently massively upgraded my camera from a 30mp to a 24mp. A good image does not have to be pin sharp when you zoom in to 1000% it just needs to look good at the appropriate distance (As James has mentioned before)

[@samcmillington]

Well said Mr Popsys, well said.

[@stefankoen]

What a wonderful analogy.

[@johannaknowles8569]

Thanks for your wise words 😊. It’s encouraging to someone who can’t afford endless gear. Love your photo style by the way 👍🏻

[@2DogAle]

Great subject James. I am constantly looking through my books from photographers that were producing amazing images 20,30, 40… years ago, you get the picture. While I do that, I am sitting here with my latest version of a camera that I thought was the thing that was going to motivate me and produce award winning images. It has not. I also agree with you, that quality images are what you should strive for, not the latest gear. I am so sure of this, that I am looking at purchasing camera gear from 10 years back to reconnect with those feeling of creating quality images. Thanks! Oh, and I could never get sick of your face, ok, I easily could but still.

[@SuperReview]

Thank you.

[@TandemAdventures]

Right on.

[@Permitmon]

Bravo.

[@mpacholik]

This video is making me appreciate my Fujifilm X10 so much. I bought it in 2012 before a trip to Italy, only used it on Auto EXR mode then eventually I started using my phone to take pictures. Last year I started trying to learn to use my X10 in manual mode and generally learning about photography in general (that lasted about a month but I’m giving it a go again!). Anyway, I shoot at 6 MP (it’s a Fuji X10 dynamic range quirk) and I still get great social media worthy shots. Now if only Fuji made a weather sealed of the X10.

[@rajbhasin3779]

So well stated. Kudos

[@michael_177]

I only shoot film and ive never actually owned a digital camera but I love your videos so much 😩 make it make sense

[@SteveD518]

Excellent point James. Always an education.

[@treharris1677]

Very enjoyable and useful!

[@gransha3]

Excellent point James you are spot on.

[@qwiklok]

Absolutely YES. when I learned decades ago, it was on a Contax and Kodachromes at $1 each. I quickly learned the art of quality by necessity. Today, people believe that expensive gear is the secret. deception. Quality images are hard to come by. Good gear helps of course, but talent is honed by commitment and training. The results speak for themselves.

[@DanaPushie]

Thank you James! The one and only regret I have for the gear I own is the lack of weather sealing. Being an amateur, little did I know the endless hassle this would cause; being interested mainly in outdoor photography. The long term goal is improving the quality of my work with what I have. It's the process, the adventure, the little moments of satisfaction I think I share with other photographers; like yourself, that is what we strive for.. What you share makes me a better, more intentional photographer. Thank you.

[@guidoaltamirano4326]

amazing video! i need more content like this

[@johnlinney8685]

Yep, you’ve got that right. My Panasonic S1 is 24mp which compared to latest models from Sony, Canon and Nikon , is smaller. It does help me to make the nicest images I’ve ever shot (although countless thousands of photos I’ve taken might be the factor). Love your channel and your work is fabulous.

[@pwood5733]

"Image quality and Quality image are not the same" what a fantastic gnomic you gave us there for the entire world of photography WOW 🎉

[@danielspenner3683]

To me the joy of the technical side of photography is about mastering the gear I own in a way that preeliminates (is that even a word?) its limitations and flaws. This is a time consuming, sometimes frustrating process. But it leads to a deeper understanding and more intuitive use of the gear, that's available. It also allowes me to take the images suitable for easy post processing, because I know, what will need to be worked on. Now, I'm no pro of course. But I feel, that the camera is probably the least factor in quality images, whereas lenses can make a big difference.

[@PhilMakesThings]

Exactly that. I know I get better images (my opinion, others vary) from my old Nikon FM2 that I’ve had since forever than I do with my Fuji XT5 - so many button, so many options… and while I’m faffing about deciding what button to press… the moment has passed. I’m sure I’ll be well bedded in with it in a few years.

[@alsa4real]

Great message

[@bastian.michel]

I love to learn(or beeing reminded) from you in so many ways. ❤️

[@skylar.benson]

Love the Tudor!! I just bought one and it came in today!

[@rudigerwolf9626]

James...Wonderful! More videos about how to make quality images would be ever so helpful! Thank-you.

[@Giorgio.Bevilacqua]

One or the best, if not the best video I've ever seen talking about the photography. Thank you James, my offer for Sudtirol in Italy is still valid, whenever you want.

[@danevarkevisser4670]

Anybody starting out in photography would do well to watch this video. James is bang on right. Technology can only get you so far. The rest is up to you. Having 100 megapixel camera is useless if the images you take are not interesting. On this note, James is a quality photographer - I really admire his work. It may not be to everyone's taste, but I love it.

[@bitsandblocks7826]

Great video James. Some of the best images ever created aren't even sharp but they make you feel. Which camera we choose is more about how enjoyable they are to use as image quality becomes increasingly a given.

[@kevwarrilow45]

Spot on James - I think you're absolutely right - we forget far too easily about what makes a good image - and it definitely isn't the number of pixels.

[@steveboys5369]

Hi James, quote to remember “image quality can be bought, quality images cannot”

[@westvirginianlivin9871]

It’s so refreshing hearing a photographer say this. Thank you Sir.

[@bighairywheel]

Great vid, well said!

[@andriimartynov83]

Absolutely agree with your points on gear and image quality. I’m happy that when I decided to buy my first full frame camera (as an upgrade from my aging Canon 50D), I chose the cheapest I could get, the canon RP. Absolutely love it.

[@zand]

Great talk. Totally agree but still have to keep in mind what your minimum "image quality" is in accordance to what, where or when you want to shoot. And beyond that, it also includes your camera's user experience. Cheers. ;)

[@lpark8]

Important reminder! Awesome images too. Keep making great videos 😎🙏

[@martinlemke4440]

Wise words ... Thank you!

[@srardusts_wonder]

👍🏻 strongly agreed.

[@Paul_Wetor]

That comment about being over-equipped really nails it. (I marvel at the fancy cameras people use to make KZbin videos that will be viewed at the size of a softcover book, if that). Having more pixels is nice, but having _enough_ pixels is more important. Some of my favorite photos were taken with a "bridge" camera that is ten years old. I have many fancy cameras, but when I travel I want a compact, versatile camera.

[@martinhommel9967]

Some nice pics there. Thanks for sharing :). Your wider point is more than valid. I myself have been sucked into the arms race of upgrading gear unnecessarily. Hopefully I have learnt my lesson and will resist for a few months. Useful video

[@artsilva]

Well said sir! I was just recently rounds in FB groups about this same topic where I brought up questions about old and new digital IQ and how it is mostly irrelevant to a great photograph. Lots of brainwashed newbies were annoyingly set on the MP and AF argument as well as high end mirrorless lenses. I posted images from my 10 and 15 year old cameras and no one could guess what I used and those are the images that most people liked.

[@timkingaz]

As always, another great thought provoking video complete with amazing content and humor. This video is, dare I say, serene?

[@jakhilp5579]

nailed it.

[@MrSwaggernaut83]

Image quality ≠ quality images, agreed. That being said, gear that creates particularly high quality makes creating quality images miles easier, and this is exacerbated by mundane environments. Image quality doesnt have to be the highest to get quality images in a beautiful nordic island, but for many the real world is their home town or region, and in a lot of those cases it is miles and miles more beneficial to have more photogrphic tools at your disposal. Enjoyed the video!

[@tjsinva]

Saturday morning was boring until this dropped. The photographer's equivalent of an existential crisis, image quality vs. quality images. Brilliant! It appears that one could forego the sun block for a visit to Jan Mayen. Carry on. 👍🥂

[@tTLM823]

Really great insights!

[@mauritsnienhuis]

7:10 I quite like that analogy

[@wednesdaythroughthelens830]

If I saw the lamppost image at 3.35 anywhere in time I’d say “that’s James that is”…. Classic 😊

[@RealBesty]

Excellent, well-reasoned stuff. Worry not!

[@YoSpiff]

I agree with the premise of this piece. Initially I found your channel because of your use of Micro 4/3. Since you changed platforms, I have stuck with watching you because you concentrate more on technique and inspiration instead of gear. Another popular KZbinr in Europe now appears to be leaning more that way instead of the "lens of the week". I find I click on his videos a little more often since this change.

[@Smamaj]

So true man!

[@alexron2023]

Right to the point sir !

[@anonymouspdg6121]

Your ideas and thoughts make perfect sense and I'm as guilty as anyone when looking at new gear. Maybe now is the time for me to stop and actually use the gear I have?🤔😁

[@gashead2]

Totally agree, I was curious about Fuji cameras but as a Nikon user I didn’t want to sell all my gear and be disappointed. MPB had an X-M1 for sale, body only £150. No viewfinder so flip out screen only but why not try it? Bought a 35mm Fuji XC F2 prime, £159 to go with it, and boy was I blown away! 16 megapixels and sublime images and dare I say they are better than my Nikon! They really don’t need any post processing and I love it, now if it had a viewfinder …………..!

[@ultimas20]

I keep this quote in mind anytime I am tempted to focus on gear "Practically all lenses made within the past decade or two are excellent--often more precise than even the most exacting practical photographer requires. They are, in fact, usually better in their capacity for preserving fine detail than our standard contemporary films and papers can record." - The Camera, Ansel Adams, 1980. Keeping in mind Adams himself used an uncoated convertible triplet lens for a large portion of his most famous works. In the section where he discusses filters he talks about using uncoated gels. The camera gear we have today is light years better than what was used back then. Truthfully the thing I think about most when looking at The Tetons and the Snake River or Moon and Half Dome isn't what gear was used or the image quality, it is how amazing the pictures are. When I was a new photographer I focused a lot on gear now my only considerations with gear is size, weight, price, ergonomics, and compatibility. Image quality isn't even considered because all modern lenses and cameras are adequate. Luckily I came to this realization before I spent too much time chasing gear and all of my current gear individually has not cost me more than $200 (excluding one lens and my cellphone), including my camera's which are 2 identical 35mm film SLRs. Total system cost is well below the cost of most modern professional body's and I spend more time shooting with the intent to make every frame as perfect as I can get it than drooling over new gear.

[@dhlininger3159]

Thanks James for this one. I started out watching gear videos until my eyes crossed. I now seek out videos about making photos and photographers past and present . I now shoot with two 10 mp DSLR’s and am impatiently waiting for my newest a Olympus pen EP-3. Your videos inspire all of us to just get out there and shoot.

[@markdavies9636]

I totally agree with you ,the story rather than image quality is more important.

[@Raykenn1]

Great advice. I have and older canon , and I love to learn and use what you have vs. what you want 👍

[@jan-hendrikswanepoel3744]

"Image quality can be bought; quality images cannot." Preach! 😊