Let's talk about "Image Quality"

[@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.

[@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.

[@costafilh0]

I totally agree. When we talk about ART, the quality of the image is not THAT important. Old photography prove this. For me, the best thing about modern photography is the performance of new cameras, which allow us to capture impossible moments much more easily. Good photography, from phones to modest cameras, just because they are incredible tools, very fast and convenient, we have them with us all the time, and that is a big difference in the yeld of photographic opportunities. Specially for me, as I love capturing points of view, far beyond scenes and landscapes.

[@costafilh0]

I'm a sucker for tech and amazing image quality. My dream camera is the Hasselblad X2D. But I still agree.

[@Shawns_snapshots]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@emmanuelpower2439]

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

[@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

[@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...🤔

[@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. :)

[@JonBushell]

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

[@leanderhoefler]

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

[@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.

[@bastian.michel]

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

[@lpark8]

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

[@genernator]

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

[@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...

[@gransha3]

Excellent point James you are spot on.

[@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.

[@martinfredriksson1544]

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

[@SteveD518]

Excellent point James. Always an education.

[@martinlennon4673]

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

[@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.

[@rudigerwolf9626]

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

[@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.

[@misspuddles63]

Jan Mayen is for sure an amazing place and the photos were lovely, but your video was great even without them. Thank you

[@westdk6705]

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

[@Sebbir]

Tjing tjang tjing lutillej 🇩🇰

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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

[@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 🎉

[@markdavies9636]

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

[@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)

[@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.

[@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!

[@stefankoen]

What a wonderful analogy.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@westvirginianlivin9871]

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

[@samcmillington]

Well said Mr Popsys, well said.

[@JeevesTCW]

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

[@enigmabletchley6936]

Content Is King

[@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!

[@Eddiesquid123]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@johannaknowles8569]

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

[@edwintam2349]

One of the best photo commentators around!

[@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!

[@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.

[@david_takes_photos]

i adore your editing style, you're such a good story teller and do an excellent job of explaining concepts.

[@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.

[@martinlemke4440]

Wise words ... Thank you!

[@Yves-xe5jw]

Fully agree with you James!

[@jhaydnreynolds]

Interesting. You make a valid point.

[@MrDunk66]

Watching this one was like taking a cold shower - 👍👍👍👍👍

[@aronjones]

Spot on. In this day and age where you’re mostly viewing photography on Instagram where the image quality is severely compressed at thumbnail size, the quality isn’t what matters, but rather the story being told.

[@sethie_shots]

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

[@julieduncan1996]

I agree with you 100%! ❤

[@RobBro_mf]

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

[@kingnary9th688]

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

[@georgemason2472]

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

[@RealBesty]

Excellent, well-reasoned stuff. Worry not!

[@stuartcarden1371]

For the vast majority of us it's about finding camera and lens combinations that inspire us. It's truly very hard to find "bad" photography gear these days. Granted there will be differences in quality and certainly differences if you take what you want to shoot into account but those differences are often overstated. My favourite camera and lens combination is a 10 year old Lumix GX7 with a £70 Sigma 30mm f/2.8. It's not the best of the best in any way whatsoever but it's the combo I still go to more than anything else and therefore the combo I take most of my favourite pictures with.

[@jan-hendrikswanepoel3744]

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

[@exurban5207]

🙋‍♂️ Thanks for sharing your photos and your thoughts! 🙋‍♂️

[@treharris1677]

Very enjoyable and useful!

[@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.

[@rajbhasin3779]

So well stated. Kudos

[@lesath7883]

Thank you.

[@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 …………..!

[@michaelhale416]

Great message!!!! Could not agree more. Why do we refer to Ansel Adams as one of the greats, yet he had inferior gear as compared to today. It was because he captured a story and emotion that can only come from the human spirit.

[@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. ;)

[@timoohlsen]

Well said James! I can’t agree with you more and your analogies are priceless 😂

[@Permitmon]

Bravo.

[@MSladekPhoto]

Thanks so much for sharing these thoughts! It's so helpful to remember that camera tech is NOT what (mostly) allows us to create quality images. As others have said, your thought that "image quality can be bought, but you can't buy quality images" is soooo true. Also, how cool that you and Emily have been together since you were 18 AND she bought you a camera!

[@MarcosCodas]

Still rocking my G9 + Oly 12-40 F2.8. Amazing piece of kit.

[@McSpark86]

Work with the camera, not worry about limitations, I used a cybershot that has 7mp, used it on my cousin's wedding day in Wales 14 years ago and have alot of family favourites.

[@theoderzweite8272]

Hi James, a fantastic video - in all your content: The island, your images, and also the analogy with the cars!! How less gear matters, had I seen just few weeks ago as i saw pictures from about 1920 which Franz Schensky made with a plate camera in a open little boat in the stormy northsea around of Helgoland! His images of the waves are fantastic!!

[@andymcgarty3099]

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

[@michaelheld_photography]

Great Video James! This is perfect for all people who still think that the camera takes the picture and not the photographer. 😅

[@alsa4real]

Great message

[@johnclay7644]

good topic.

[@guidoaltamirano4326]

amazing video! i need more content like this

[@scarcesense6449]

Too true. Although, as with everything, there is a limit. I've taken some really nice photos on my old 8mp hybrid camcorder, and same goes for my phone. I do occasionally find myself wishing they had much more detail so I could blow them up and mount them on a wall.

[@joostverpoort]

Spot on James! I ditched a 61mp camera because I got crazy about the data it created as well as it makes me lazy in my photography, i mean the crop you can make with 61mp files will always safe you. I'll go ''back'' to A7S ii with the 12 mp sensor which i will love and hate but makes me creative again. Thanks

[@harryquinnc]

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

[@alexron2023]

Right to the point sir !

[@TandemAdventures]

Right on.

[@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.

[@Paulruk]

As someone who used slr cameras since 1978 and didn’t even get my first digital until my mid 30s I do still love how we use to spend time taking a photo and then if you were lucky had a darkroom to watch them come to life on paper. I remember taking a photo of a bird box when I was a kid and had a 30ft long cable/hose to release the shutter on my Olympus om-10 and some manual focus zoom lens. Now I have a Olympus em-5 iii and I can do pro capture which fills the buffer constantly with photos and I choose the one I want from the same distance but the lens is so good , it’s a 12-150mm equivalent of 24-300mm on a 35mm camera the image is no comparison to my old film photos. But just the process of using film was something I do miss because you had to work harder to get a good photo. But it was expensive and time consuming.