It's Over

[@mikeclark3013]

You have been one of my favorite camera and photography related KZbinrs. For what it’s worth, I still take my cameras out and shoot regularly. I’ve learned stuff from you, and for that I thank you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Please, continue to go out and make photographs. Photography isn't over, just the ability to have a channel dedicated to camera reviews.

[@grant4360]

@@MaartenHeilbron Would you be willing to help me find a camera? You're so passionate about it that I trust your judgement! I am 23 and just starting out. Going to be traveling as much as I can over the next few years and I am seriously considering joining the Navy as well. I just bought an Instax so I can send pictures back home to my family when deployed. But for myself, I am looking for a camera that can kinda do it all; at least shoot full HD if not 4k, can add a microphone, decent assortment of lenses, shoots decent stills, am interested in Weather proofing just to be on the safe side but am not planning on shooting in the pouring rain or anything of the like so not sure if that would be worth it but I also don't want a few raindrops or drizzle to destroy the camera. If the camera has a screen that can fold out that would be cool/useful. Any other bells and whistles that are good to have would be great, but reliability is king. Size of the camera isn't a big issue as I have big hands and if the camera is small, I would just fat thumb everything I imagine. Hopefully that gives you an idea of what I am looking for. I am already planning on buying used given how expensive it can be, so any cameras that you think are possibly within my means as a 23 year old college student I want to check out. Thank you so much for your time, please know it is appreciated. Thanks!!

[@SourojitBh]

@@grant4360 You can get a used Olympus EM1 MK1 or 2. And a used 14-42 PRO and 40-150 PRO. The camera and both lenses are weather sealed, has excellent performance, full of bells and whistles and also has 5 axis image stabilisation in-built in the camera. Oh, and it's a mirrorless, and it's the smallest and lightest you can get. If you want something that's cheaper and lighter and even more compact(since you will be in the navy and won't be able to pack a full camera kit a lot of the times), you can consider the Olympus Tough TG6. I have been using it for a year, and while it's certainly not equal to a dslr or mirrorless camera, it does do the job well. It is fully weather sealed, you can take it 50ft underwater as it is, and can withstand falls from 6ft. It has great macro and underwater capability, can record 4k@30p, 1080@120p, has in-built stereo mic(no mic jack though), decent autofocus, manual focus, the monitor quality is good, can shoot raw, has in-built flash, has wifi, can be controlled from your smartphone, has lots of filters and modes. Hope this helps!

[@marlowencna]

I join late but I love my X-T200. I still prefer the quality of pictures for my Camera vs Smartphone, especially on vacations. Love printing them :)

[@adam-brockway]

Maarten your videos have always been a wonderful contrast to the manufactured enthusiasm of most reviewers, something I've really appreciated over the years. I'm glad to hear you will keep creating and looking forward to what you come up with next.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I'll do my best to continue to earn your appreciation. I appreciate your kind words.

[@phdossantos3169]

and also taught me English, along with other channels. I used to watch a lot for practicing. I'm still learning though :)

[@peterjoseph3839]

I totally agree with You Adam. Keep up your inspiring good work Maarten 👌👍🔝📸

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@milk6982]

I had had a fleeting feeling that the camera scene was dying around 2019. It seems to have stagnated both in the market and the media scene. It's sad to see your channel come to this but I wish you the best because you have provided me (and many others) with quality camera reviews and a comforting viewing experience which helped me a lot during the tough times of my life in the past year and change.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm humbled by your kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment - it's always appreciated.

[@Tugela60]

There is nothing wrong with the photography scene, more people are taking photographs and video than ever before. They are just doing on it different equipment boomer.

[@The_Cold_Slither]

@@Tugela60 And there’s always one of you unfortunately. He said that!!!!!

[@SourojitBh]

@@The_Cold_Slither yeah.

[@kbarrett1844]

Thanks Maarten - Good to hear that you'll still be creating. We must adapt with the times - There will always be a need and demand for insightful and interesting content. I look forward to what the future brings to your channel.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words and encouragement, thanks!!

[@peterkettle8683]

Maarten, thank you for your servility, your humble approach in a media dominated by huge egos. Your videos are a real treat to those of us looking for detailed information, delivered by a consummate professional. The future will be written by psychopaths and creatives. I am glad to hear you will continue to play your part in ensuring the scales remain tipped in the right direction.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's a lot of tipping! I'll do my best.

[@paddyboy207]

Thank for your work! You are a great inspiration and I love your relaxed and factual style, which is kind of a rare thing in the attention economy we live in. All the best to you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your generous contribution to my work and for your kind words and wishes, all gratefully appreciated.

[@kevinparkes417]

Maarten. I've always found your reviews thoughtful and insightful, delivered in a calm and measured way. No click-bait. No telling me that I MUST DO THIS or that I must CHANGE THIS NOW like I'm a child with no idea. After 50 years of photography I think I can think for myself and make up my own mind. And thank you for not wearing a backwards baseball cap, a sight which has me instantly switching off the video and hitting the 'dislike' button. In these difficult times I can appreciate that it is not easy to keep up such splendid output and the camera manufacturers don't seem to be helping you or themselves at the moment, but please know that we all appreciate the work that you do.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your appreciation of my old-school style, appreciated.

[@SourojitBh]

@@MaartenHeilbron I disagree with the 'old-school' bit. I think it very much relevant now and will be in the future too. This is how reviews should be.

[@MSACoachMike]

You have the smoothest, most polished delivery of the photography related creators I follow - one take in a canoe while paddling without missing a beat is something very few people can do regardless of the subject matter that they are talking about. I look forward to seeing where you go from here. I’m sure what ever it will be, you will find success!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, yes and those were fun to do also. Did I mention I used a teleprompter? A pleasure to read your kind words and encouragement.

[@texasflyboy525]

I was going to say how great it was to hear you use a teleprompter! Makes for such a professional presentation that is sorely missing around KZbin.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks. It requires me to actually think about what I'm going to say and write it out. And it helps keep my ADHD mind in check while I'm recording.

[@texasflyboy525]

@@MaartenHeilbron and is what helps make your content so appealing and fun to watch. Others could learn a lot! How about a "how to make great videos" series for new (and old but still bad) KZbinrs? That being said the canoe trip sounds more fun.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's not advice I'd want to give. One of the lessons I've learned from youtube is to provide the opportunity for everyone to find their own voice. While rules and guidelines certainly worked for classical composers in the romantic period, somehow I feel we need to provide the opportunity to let all flowers bloom.

[@foot_down]

I only discovered your channel recently, and it was your videos that lead me to pick up a Fujifilm XT-4 in the last few weeks. Your insight, delivery and no nonsense approach is easily picked up on amongst other creators who may have the production down, but don't have the personality to boot! Thanks for your help, and make sure to keep posting content that you enjoy creating, you'll be sorely missed otherwise.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your very kind comments, it's always nice to know that my work is appreciated.

[@itspoots]

Maarten, I remember starting photography back around 2015 or so. My first first dedicated camera purchase was the Sony RX100 m3. Your detailed review and tutorial proved invaluable in learning how to use a camera. I appreciate your unbiases, unsponsored approach. Wishing you the best.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for sharing those notes - always nice to know I've been able to assist in someone's photography journey.

[@BrentTimm]

One of my favorite channels on KZbin, and I stopped using a camera long ago. Thanks for everything you've done, and best of luck on your next chapter!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thank you! Always nice to read kind words.

[@RayShan]

Thank you Maarten, would love to see general tips on creating content from you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for being very generous with this news. Good suggestion, that's something I can continue to do.

[@rzr82]

I've always loved your reviews. You had a knack for finding certain details that most other reviewers missed. I'm glad that you're not shutting down your channel completely, but I will certainly miss the reviews. Keep on doing great work, as usual, and it will all work out. Here's to you! 🥂

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words and encouragement, as you say, it will all work out.

[@steveerwinvideos]

Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow! That was very generous of you. Your support is greatly appreciated.

[@savnac]

your empathetic and charismatic character is unmatched. thank you for being so transparent with us. it's a sad thing to see the camera industry die out.. but only time can tell really what will happen. i'm still deeply in love with my cameras.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

So happy to read your very kind words. Photography isn't over, please continue to create, to tell stories and share images that please you.

[@Tasurincci]

I love your sincere and heart-warming content, I bought my two cameras on the basis of your recommendations. I have nothing but respect for you and the quality of your work, and I hope to watch your canoeing trips.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A real pleasure to read your very kind words, thanks for taking the time.

[@coryirvin6651]

Your channel has been incredibly helpful, thank you for your continued work supporting and informing the photography community.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My pleasure! I've certainly enjoyed all my time creating content for this channel.

[@NickDixon]

Maarten, I've only found your channel in the last few months, and I enjoy your style and your perspective as a photographer and not merely a tech reviewer feeding a channel. Your manner and delivery would make your videos enjoyable on any subject that takes your interest, and I look forward to you finding a sustainable niche.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I'm looking forward to that. And thanks also for your kind words.

[@munnsie100]

Maarten, I have been a viewer of yours for a number of years now, initially attracted by your bicycle accessory reviews, and then photography as it became a hobby of mine. Thanks for all the invaluable content you’ve created and posted over the years, I hope that you hang around, even in light of difficult times.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Well, the cycling videos were never as popular as the camera videos - but let's see. As I said, Italy is on the agenda.

[@beachblythe]

I only discovered you a few months ago. I’m an eager amateur. The quality of your videos is amazing! I enjoy them very much. I would love to see tips for photography while on vacation. That is where I take most of my pictures. Thank you for what you do!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm so glad that you have something to look forward to.

[@diba4645]

Danke!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your very kind and extremely generous support, it's greatly appreciated.

[@GRAFHC]

I wonder what impact cell phones have had on the digital camera market, I feel like 10 years ago I had a lot of friends who were always chasing something new in the camera market to support their hobby who all just carry a Samsung or iPhone around now and rarely pull out their big league gear. Your videos are exceptional and your content is important, I hope that as this channel evolves you are able to continue to post videos that make bring you the most satisfaction.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

The impact of mobile phones is clear - there is no longer an entry level camera market. Thanks for taking the time to post your kind words, appreciated.

[@stevestruthers6180]

I still prefer using a traditional stills camera over a smartphone. The ergonomics of smartphones when it comes to photography are fiddly at best, displays are hard to see in bright sunlight, and resolution and dynamic range, while seeming to get better, are still well behind typical digital cameras. Battery life is also an issue.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

All valid reasons to prefer a traditional camera, thanks for sharing your notes.

[@Fapjockey101]

@@stevestruthers6180 I agree, though flagship phone peak brightness is starting to get quite high now.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, in general we seem to be too busy getting high.

[@hsnlens]

I learned a lot from you about cameras, photography and settings.. The most important thing is that I learned some English from you because your words are slow and understandable. Thank you very much from Kuwait 🇰🇼

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, a pleasure to read your comments.

[@mountainhobo]

Sorry to see it end, Maarten. I think the camera makers' reacting to phones by shifting everything to high end and abandoning "bridge" cameras squeezed out casual buyers who might have considered something like Sony RX10 or Panasonic FZ1000 because of the much better image quality and telephoto capability, but there was no way they would spend thousands (or tens of thousands) of dollars on interchangeable lenses. Essentially the makers jettisoned low profit margin buyers, thus narrowing the market.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Good analysis, thanks. Also, weight and convenience.

[@mountainhobo]

@@MaartenHeilbron "weight and convenience" -- Definitely. I had a full frame for a while, but I kept leaving it at home. It was just unwieldy to carry around with lenses I wanted.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My thesis here is that you have to love your camera enough to take it with you even though it may be inconvenient.

[@mountainhobo]

@@MaartenHeilbron Hence the shrinking camera market.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

As the popular saying goes "It is what it is"

[@jontip]

Thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That was very kind, thank you!!

[@nerfherder183]

Maarten thank you for all the wonderful content over the years. I don't think we'll find anyone who's happy about the direction things are going, but I'm glad you'll continue in at least some capacity.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, nice to know that I have fans and supporters, you are appreciated.

[@konstantinosvasilopoulos6188]

Ευχαριστούμε!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Εκτιμώ τα καλά σας λόγια και τη γενναιόδωρη συνεισφορά σας, σας ευχαριστώ!

[@RO33O97]

That’s a shame Maarten, I’ve always enjoyed your very detailed gear videos, good luck with whatever the future brings, I hope you continue doing things you love 😊

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, thanks for commenting today.

[@SomeTechGuy666]

DPReview's are way less detailed than they used to be. They used to be pages and pages long. Now they are very brief. Sad to hear the good ole days are no longer. You have a great channel with interesting viewpoints. I'll be watching whatever you decide to produce. Did you do the trip to Venice ? How'd it turn out ? Pics ? Travel pic tips ? I would love to hear about it all.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Agreed, their reviews which were an invaluable supplement to a manual were always a very valuable reference and an inspiration for me. We did go to Italy, but I wanted to enjoy our travels without the constant need to produce content. Then, family events have taken up a great deal of time since. I am now, as when I posted this video, considering my future on youtube.

[@NewManToHandle]

I've been watching you here for years, and I have learned so much. Please don't go away. We will always enjoy your content. In any event, I wish you well!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Not going away, but my ability to review cameras seems to be ending.

[@scarborosasquatchstation1403]

Thanks Marteen.... Your magnificent camera videos have always been a great learning experience.... Including your fantastic tutorials on the camera brand Fuji , while showing it is indeed a worthy contender for filming great photos... ! ❤📸☮

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@JeffersonGonzalez1971]

You nailed it! Camera industry seems to be evolving... Appreciate your objectivity to define what's happening out there in just few minutes. It will be a pleasure to keep following your future activities! Keep going!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words as well as your continued interest, thanks!!

[@AzucarNegroT]

I recently got hold of a Fuji XS10 and found your videos explaining different functions and settings. I'm extremely new to the world of photography but have been fascinated and excited to begin my journey for years. I know I haven't been around for the majority of your journey thus far, but I would like to say thank you. Your cadence, thoroughness and knowledge so far have been engaging and helpful. I hope this doesn't disrespect in any way, but I find you strike me as a Mr. Rogers of Photography. Thank you, for taking the time to educate in a medium that seems to be getting pushed aside as technology changes. With your help, I believe I have a better chance at making progress in this field. I wish you all the best

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm always pleased to be compared to those I respect, thank you. I'm also grateful for your kind words, it's nice to know I've been helpful in your pursuit of photography.

[@TheSelened]

Thank you Maarten for all your excellent videos! It's certainly a (sad) sign of the times to see DPReview and others (such as yourself) having to close or "downsize"... for all of us who love photography, you will remain a beacon! Greetings (and thanks) from Italy

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, but you closed with "Italy", which I am so happily anticipating I forgot what you said before that.

[@matanwhitebook]

Sad to hear. As someone who enjoys using old equipment, I find myself seeing your old reviews with great interest. Good luck, and hope for better days for our type of photography

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Photography, while it's changing, isn't going away - but my ability to review cameras is.

[@Hlbkomer]

I always thought photo assignments were a great fun. You pick a topic/motive and have your viewers take some pictures and send them to you. Then do a video where you present your pictures and compare/rate the pictures send in by your viewers.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Sounds fun but complicated. Let me think more about that.

[@sudipchatterjee]

Your camera reviews are the most meticulously researched, but not overly complicated. I’ve always recommended your channel to anyone who’s asked me about a particular camera. I thank you wholeheartedly for what you have done for amateur photographers like me. ❤

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks - that's exactly what I'm trying to do, so very glad to read that comes through. A pleasure to read your kind words.

[@j16m02]

I so appreciate what you do, and how you do it Maarten. You are a breath of fresh air. I'll happily enjoy whatever you choose to do in the future.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

How kind of you to comment, thanks very much!

[@1956jude]

You are one of my favorite photography content creators. Your style is genuine, gentle, civil and classy. I still walk around in my little city (Portsmouth NH) with my Sony a6000 and shoot photos and don't plan on stopping. I look forward to whatever content you provide in the future and wish you all the best. Thank you. 😊

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind words, and to know that you continue to enjoy your photography experiences. Thank you!

[@teacherofteachers1239]

Thanks for being my go-to resource for all things Fuji. For an inexperienced person (myself), digital cameras like the X-T3 and X-T4 are so overwhelming. The nice demonstrations and detailed explanations are things I still go back to and have made it possible for me to film interviews and even take some stills (still working on that!). - Dave

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's great to read, thanks, always nice to know I've been part of your creative journey.

[@alonmilbauer9916]

תודה!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

תמיד העונג שלי, אני מעריך את המילים החמות והתמיכה הנדיבה שלך.

[@HenleyBailey]

You're awesome and it's sad to hear you won't be doing your excellent in-depth reviews anymore. All the very best for the future.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I certainly appreciate your kind words, thank you!!

[@enregistreur]

I was VERY worried when I saw the title and a grey photo as thumbnail, in the recent health context of a *few* creators I follow… but you are okay! It was “just” about the state of cameras! What a relief!!!! ❤ 🙏

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm sorry that I caused you concern. It's dedicating a channel to camera reviews that's over. not me!

[@TungstenOvergaard]

Thanks for giving us your time. Whatever you will produce will be highly interesting/honest so will be a must see. Photo industry will come back at some point… let’s hope.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Interesting. Yes, it will be interesting to see what the next iteration of "image" capture will be.

[@danh9922]

Thank you for the many videos over the years. Not only have they been informative, but your silky, smooth voice always puts my mind at ease. I look forward to your future videos and hope you enjoy your future trips.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thank you! That was very kind.

[@Jimo368]

I’ve enjoyed your experienced detailed reviews Maarten, thanks you. It’s a quickly changing world we live in.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

hehe, thanks. The only thing constant is change. I appreciate your kind words.

[@Kristian77322]

Dear Maarten, thank you for guiding me with your calm and reassuring personality through the wonderful journey of photography and videography. I am indeed looking forward to your upcoming canoe trips :) Wish you all best K.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Many thanks! A pleasure to read your kind words, always appreciated.

[@sclogse1]

Always a class act. Looks like the trend for using vintage glass on digital is growing. Whether you're interested in doing an overview of the pluses and minuses on this I don't know. But it is a thing. My friends just visited Toronto and sent a pic of the main camera shop in town. Maybe a project with them. Spring is here. Stories.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Great suggestion, my friend Havard is always tinkering with vintage glass on his e-mount camera. Maybe we could do a few videos on this topic.

[@andresgonzalezcerda7635]

My love with M43 starts just because I want to use the old lenses of my father, and that was the best and cheaper way to do it. And then…People like you, with calm and class wich is a joy to see to learn something new or just for entertaining. Keep going not just for gear, go for experiences and to photograph those moments (even with a phone sometimes)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated.

[@IanThompson1]

Yes do keep going, with cameras when you can, and whatever else you do will be appreciated. Thank you for the honest, frank, detailed and utterly trustworthy work you've done over the years, and for everything you'll do in the future.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you! It's been a great pleasure to read everyone's kind words today.

[@ck.standard]

Thanks Maarten. You’ve always given robust and thoughtful reviews

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's been my goal, so always nice to be appreciated.

[@SteadyRolling]

Counter-point: The financial reports appear to suggest that the camera business is relatively robust. It is possible that what's going on now is temporary. People are still somewhat in shock, or whatever you want to call it, from the government overreach of the past few years. But things inevitably will come back around.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You may have misinterpreted the title. My point was that changes in the way the industry operates means that it's no longer easy for a camera reviewer to borrow cameras to create reviews. Everything is temporary - but I'm not sure why you are blaming governments for a medical pandemic that killed millions of people and made the rest of us very nervous to go out.

[@ilmatanela1816]

Your tutorials are some of the best I ever had the pleasure to watch. Clear, comprehensive and detailed. Your passion is clearly perceptible and inspirational, too. I'll continue to follow the channel whatever the path you'll decide to follow. Happy to hear you'll be visiting my country, Italy. Hope you'll have a beautiful experience.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm sure I will - we cycled Tuscany in the fall and that whet my appetite for more Italian adventures. Thanks for your kind words.

[@ilmatanela1816]

@@MaartenHeilbron I'm happy to hear you enjoyed! After 12 years abroad, I am now finally going back home, with my wife. I'm from the northern side, near Como, but we chose Tuscany for our new begin. Who knows, we may cross paths one day.

[@shaddring]

You have always been one of the best teachers on KZbin. In a chaotic world you remained a calming, educational refuge for me. I will continue to follow and watch your journeys.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind, it was a pleasure to read your comment. Thanks for your wishes.

[@craigw.scribner6490]

Thanks, Maarten, for all you do! I have learned so much from you over the years and always enjoy your calm, pleasant and informative presentation.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's so nice - thanks for your kind words.

[@MuhammadKharismawan]

Sad to see you go, I've been watching your channels for years since the A6000 video, your in depth video is just fun to watch and very helpful when I bought my first camera RX10iv.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm glad to know that you've enjoyed my videos, thanks for your kind words.

[@AlfordLau]

Thank you Maarten for those tutorials on using a few Panasonic cameras which I loved and used. I always found that your tutorials were a cut above others and a delight to watch. I am no expert in photography but I understand photography is more about techniques and creativity than the gears. I would love if you can consider sharing your view on how you apply your knowledge and creativity in adhoc situations like car photography (when I need to sell my car, I want to present it photographical to appeal buyers), real estate photography (when I want to look into buy a property and want to take a few good snapshots to share them with my wife), or product / object photography (let say I want to do a garage sale online and I want to showcase the stuff as well as Christie's). I am interested to see how you put forth your ideas and your take on these areas of photography. Thank you once again.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Several viewers have suggested subject-specific tips videos - I'll give that a shot.

[@miket1291]

I retired a little over a year ago. About a year ago I started watching your video reviews on cameras. Then shortly after that purchased my first camera. I have always enjoyed hiking and backpacking so I figured taking some photos while I'm out there would be fun. I now have two cameras and a few lenses. I chose Olympus due to the reduced size and weight. They are weather sealed and I am very happy with the pictures they produce. My skills are improving and I am considering entering a local show later this year. Thank you for your very honest and thorough reviews. I have found that I love the interaction of taking photos with a real camera. In a few years maybe I'll be the old guy walking through the wilderness taking pictures with an antique camera😂😂😂. Thank you very much for all your contributions and good luck in the future.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Whatever equipment you use, I wish that the pleasure you've found in photography continues. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@guyyowell8547]

I’ve always look forward to your insightful and balanced reviews. I know the industry has changed quite a bit, partially due to the pandemic, but primarily due to the proliferation of camera phones, which continue to improve. Hopefully, the major camera manufacturers will survive, and there will always be the need for “professional” photographers. Your loyal follower, Guy.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, your loyalty has been appreciated.

[@sa34w]

Your work on KZbin is invaluable for the Photography enthusiasts. I really hope you will continue to get new models once this series of Unfortunate events like COVID , Ukraine war etc ends and world can function normally

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I hope so too, but really fear that I'm best to enjoy that time in my memory.

[@arisultanik]

Thanks for your wonderful videos and reviews. I would love it if you continued to share content. Maybe you could cover techniques for various situations. I love street photography, but have much to learn, maybe suggest settings, exposure etc.. for that. Good luck, and enjoy the next stage of your online presence.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Interesting suggestion - let me think about what situations and settings would be worthwhile to demonstrate/explain.

[@Now2Market]

Even mobile phones are dying and it started just a few years back, partly because of market peaking as well global economic slow down. However, for the love of art of real photography, the camera shall evolve into it's niche market all over once again.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for sharing your insight.

[@92kingsly]

I guess it's a sign of the times, Maarten. We rode the heights of the digital photo wave, and now it's finally hit bottom. A bit sad. I never figured the cellphone would kill digital cameras, but I'm apparently no fortune teller. Congrats on a job well done while it lasted. I look forward to your new adventures, and maybe another canoe safari on the Humber ...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, now that the weather is warming up, there's canoeing in our future. Hopefully the water levels hold up this year.

[@shep64]

For someone who started with film cameras and developing B&W prints in a darkroom almost 50 years ago - it’s amazing how tremendous cameras and editing software have become. It seems as though the camera companies have hit a plateau in improvement. Most young people that I know do not want to lug around a camera and numerous lenses. They also don’t want to spend time editing photos especially when cellphone photography keeps getting better and better. I have a Sony a7iv with 4 lenses and a flash but have found myself trying to downsize when going to family events or traveling. It seems like I’m not the only one since Fuji can’t make enough x100v cameras. I’m extremely grateful that you will continue to make wonderful content on KZbin. Looking forward to seeing you in the future regardless of topic.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I hear you - it's certainly changed a lot in 5 decades. Thanks, it was a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@DrewWaddell]

It’s terrible to hear the news about the decline in camera loans, and well, the broadly declining state of the camera market in general and how it’s affecting the livelihoods of so many excellent creators on this platform, whose livelihoods often depend on it. Nevertheless, I seriously respect your response to this and I hope you find enjoyment in documenting your travels and sharing camera tips along the way. I, although I don’t believe I speak for just myself, am looking forward to the direction you take the channel!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks. The direction we're taking is mostly downhill, from the Brenner Pass to Lake Garda.

[@stevestruthers6180]

Smartphones and increasingly unaffordable cameras and lenses are conspiring to kill the camera market. Every camera maker is in a race to offer more and more features and hip new technologies, and all of this increases both cost and complexity. I think people are also feeling fatigued by the surplus of choices and complexity in figuring out what camera to buy, and the plethora of gear reviews and commentary on KZbin and elsewhere is contributing to the fatigue. While I own a digital camera and like it a lot, I come from a time when cameras used film and had simple controls. In fact, in the mid-to late 1970s, the major technological advances in 35mm SLR cameras involved electronic metering, digital shutter speed and aperture readouts in an optical viewfinder, and electronic automatic or semi-automatic aperture and shutter speed control. But all of these improvements were mostly marketing gimmicks and conveniences. Autofocus wouldn't start showing up until the early to mid-1980s. In the meantime, the basic technology of film photography changed only slowly over the space of 50-odd years. Maybe I'm showing my age here and waxing nostalgic about a time that maybe never really existed, but I kinda miss film cameras. I miss the simplicity. What I don't miss is the expense of film and print processing and never being 100% certain that any of my photos turned out.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Interesting read, we're all about waxing and nostalgia here.

[@ac9669]

Your channel (and you) is my favorite photography/ camera gear channel. No matter happens in future, I hope you will enjoy your life. And thank you your videos and efforts in photography

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thanks! A pleasure to read your kind words.

[@ashstubbings2603]

Maarten, I've always enjoyed watching your channel, and will continue to do so no matter what content you manage to include. All the very best to you. PS. It does concern me very much the way photography is going in general, and especially the use of actual cameras as opposed to smartphones. One of my worries is that the use of smartphones is going to eventually turn everyone into 'photographers'. 😏😏

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I think that would be great. There's lots of fun and value to be had by creating photos with phones.

[@jeremyfielding2333]

More photos are taken in a week than in the entire 20th Century, or something like that. Day, week, month, doesn't really matter.

[@thoselog]

Thank you for everything you've created and shared with us. You've been one of my most-enjoyed and favorite channels since I found you when I was looking for Fuji reviews. I look forward to seeing whatever it is you share with us in the future. Enjoy the world out there!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thanks!! It was a pleasure to read your comment and encouragement.

[@boris.dupont]

'It's not over till it's over' we used to say in the 20th century. Everything you said is correct and supported by facts, as always, but no one knows what tomorrow will bring. We'll see but this is an opportunity to thank you again for your brilliant work, comprehensive reviews, dedication and amazing quality you put in every single video. They can't take that away (from me) can they?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I thought it wasn't over until someone with a specific body-type sang? Thank you for your very kind words. While I won't remove the videos, who knows what Google/KZbin will decide (or when).

[@AeromaticXD]

Also I’d like to think that the market is going to get better

[@1111undici1111]

Many KZbin camera content creators seem to have a big ego. You're an exception. It is refreshing to watch your insightful videos where you articulate well and you're not driven by your ego. Thank you very much for your work! I appreciate it!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It was nice to read your kind words, thanks!

[@MrToonfish]

Sad but real announcement... When walking in cities with my big chunky cameras like a D750 + Grip, D610, D6 & AF-S 12-24mm + 24-70mm f/2.8, it's like people laughing at you because they thought you're a dinosaur, completely obsolete photographer. They're laughing at you showing the latest iPhone with 3 cameras on the back. I'm still proud being a dinosaur however ! 🙂

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Understanding and appreciating the techniques and nuances of cameras and photography is not a skill that will disappear.

[@derekbrown6832]

Nothing wrong with being a dinosaur! Everything these day's is about convenience, sadly, most of this generation will never know the joy of listening to vinyl, on a good hi-fi system, the joy of buying records, or the art of using a camera, etc, etc. Yes, technology can be a wonderfull thing, but people forget....it's also about the whole experience, that's what we're loosing, kind of sad, or maybe i'm just showing my age, ha, ha, ha.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

We are all showing our age - but we're not nearly as threatening as dinosaurs.

[@VijitChandna]

Your reviews helped me buy my first camera and have taught me a lot, I started watching them in 2020 and I was able to get a camera in 2022. We will not let the art of photography die!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm so pleased to read that my videos have been helpful for you, thanks for your kind words.

[@user-hp6lg3tm7d]

Thank you Maarten for the helpful videos. I started my photography journey as a hobbyist photographer back in 2017. Your videos helped me pick and choose my camera gear that I still use to this day. The past few years have been interesting for the photography community. I started to notice the stagnation and decline of camera releases most in late 2019, early 2020. The pandemic accelerated those factors. The main type of camera that really took a heavy blow was the point and shoot. Even the premium point and shoots weren't safe from the accelerated advances of the phone camera. Thankfully, Sony, Canon, Ricoh, and OM System have decided to continue the point and shoot, but in limited releases.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes, although that was never my focus, those models were the hardest hit by the transition to phone cameras. Thanks for your kind words.

[@swiczdad4716]

I too had abandon my cameras and resorted to taking 'pictures' with my iPhone the last two - three years. Over the past month, I decided it was time to return to taking 'photos', so I have decided the Sony A7IV will soon become my early birthday gift to myself. Been a subscriber to your channel for years, and that will certainly continue. BTW, It was your review of the Sony RX. 100 V which brought me to your channel 6 years ago. I was looking for a small compact to take to Disney instead of all my Canons/lenses. Thanks for you efforts.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, and the subscription. Always nice to know I've had a positive impact on a viewer's photography journey.

[@DanielPetre]

Maarten you're a good guy. Keep posting tutorials about photography - we still have some cameras running !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

This is not the end of photography, just the end of a channel that reviews cameras.

[@alessandrocwilliam]

Dear Marteen, it's a pity to know that you will stop doing camera reviews. I have been saving money to buy my first Mirrorless camera and your channel has helped me a lot to choose the best models. Your reviews were direct, accurate and above all they were honest (a quality increasingly rare on the Internet nowadays). I'm also sad that I've discovered your channel so late (I just subscribed a few months ago) but I'm happy to know that you will continue to produce content despite the unstable and crazy times that passionate and professional photography is going through lately.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

as I said, it's not really my choice. I'm so glad to know that you (and others) have found this channel and my videos useful as your pursue your photography. Thanks for your kind words.

[@maheshsuradkar]

You are the reason i purchased my first camera fujifilm xs10 an year ago and loving my life so much all over again.. still in learning phase, you are helping me one way or another every day.. lots of love from india.. going to watch your videos repeatedly like i always do.. thanks for making my life great and joyful with photography.... Love love and lots of love.. wish you the best of everything...❤❤❤❤❤

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for taking the time to post your very kind words, they are appreciated.

[@maheshsuradkar]

@@MaartenHeilbron 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@LIJ]

You would love visiting Japan - here you can still find loads of people using big cameras!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I have loved visiting Japan, and look forward to doing so again. However, even there, not as many camera stores, not as many photographers as in the past.

[@DavinWhite]

If it helps, your more general videos about technique, camera usage, and photo editing are my favorite videos you create. I think you've taught me more than I learned in 2 semesters in College photography classes. You bring a kindness and openness that many many photography experts on KZbin lack. The way that you took the time to explain to even the most novice why they would want to shoot manual, and why they might not in "Why shoot RAW?" was outstanding. Without any judgement you explained everything and encouraged us camera users to do what works best for ourselves. Your videos are a welcome antithesis to the elitism that permeates Photography culture.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thank you for your very kind words, they're appreciated.

[@rigolizarraga1978]

Your channel has been one of my favorites. Surely one of the few with professional quality in the camera review space. Although it is sad seeing cameras (the traditional idea of cameras at least) slowly making they exit, we still have the art of photography, the whole reason they were created in the first place . Photography as a medium for documenting life has many opportunities, travel is a great idea! I will look forward for your upcoming videos. Regards

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Photography and photographers will never be over.

[@justlou717]

I loved this and your honesty. One type of video that I love these days is when someone goes “bargain bin” hunting and I can imaging you exploring old still-lovable cameras and making videos showing us why you still love them - but with your depth and flare might be a wonderful combination of what makes you special and would connect well with your viewers. Just a thought that wouldn’t be expensive to do (for all I know you have a lovely collection of cameras just like this already at home)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That might be fun. Let me think about which camera I might cover first.

[@valentinbusuioc4054]

so sorry to hear, I've always enjoyed to drop by occasionally, now that I also don't invest too much time in my photography. I hope you will still be around, your insights are always helpful. Thank you for teaching us all these years!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, nice to know my work is appreciated. Exercising your creativity with photography is a great way to reduce stress, remain active and slow the aging process.

[@valentinbusuioc4054]

@@MaartenHeilbron so true! This summer I am planning to resume my hobby and invest more in my creativity. All the best!

[@andrepegus9014]

Thanks for the lessons through the years. You are a class act and you've helped me, amongst many, with my photography!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Great to hear! Thanks for taking the time to comment, appreciated.

[@strawberriebabieex3]

Thanks for all your reviews and comments over the years. and for clarifying how the photo market is being destroyed by the portable phones and the internet. I prefer to hear a clear reason why some channels disappear or become sporadic rather than no comment at all. have a good vacation. hope to see new posts from you in the future.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. The photo market is more vibrant than ever. The devices are different.

[@emgee44]

First DP Review and now you too, sad times indeed but I understand. Your channel has always been most helpful, I will keep looking out due what ever you do next

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words and continued interest. Thank you!

[@rigogiis7219]

Greetings Maarteen! i usually dont write comments at KZbin, but at the time i watched this video i realized how much i was used to follow your channel, and even if im not a person who jumps on every new camera trend, i liked to watch your reviews (also rewatched some of them more than twice to learn more about my cameras) Thank you for all your videos! Sorry for the bad grammar, english isn't my first language 😅

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I had no trouble understanding your kind words, and they are appreciated. Thank you.

[@GrahamBridgemanClarke01]

I have enjoyed your honest and unbiased opinions over the years. I hope there is a resurgence of camera users. Thanks again.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, appreciated.

[@mgall23]

Very sad news, I may not have watched your reviews consistently, but you, by far have been one of my favorite reviewers. Whenever I have thought about buying a new camera or accessory, I have always gone to your video feed first to see if you reviewed. Several years ago when I was explaining your channel to my father, I called you the Rick Steves of cameras. I hope that is an honorific you can appreciate. Thank you for your many years of honest, detailed, practical, thoughtful reviews over the years.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I am honoured to be considered in the same group as Mr. Steves, who I greatly respect.

[@ralfkleemann4325]

Thank you for all the amazing videos. I hope you will enjoy taking photos for a very long time to come, that timeless pastime that can be so fulfilling, humbling and inspiring.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Those are kind wishes indeed, thank you very much!

[@gfranks007]

I just discovered you! That is a sad but sobering fact about cameras! However, I look forward to further videos from you, because my sense is the "person" you are will be interesting, thoughtful and helpful and worth the "watch time". Thanks for your openness, honesty and authenticity.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

How kind, what a pleasure to read your kind words.

[@morleydd]

Thank you so much for all the reviews and enjoyment you have provided over the years - will watch for anything new from you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thanks!! I appreciate the kind words and encouragement.

[@itsLuisG]

You have been such a nice person, a pleasure to watch, a feel of peace, your channel the reason I watch it goes beyond the camera review. I don't even own a camera anymore, but I still like watching you fiddling with all the knobs and buttons, perhaps also because out of curiosity of such interesting tech. Thank you for all the great work, looking forward to watch more from you.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Let me see if I can schedule some more fiddling for you.

[@eduardofrances]

You have been so helpful to my career as a photographer all this years, thank you so much! I will continue watching your content! If I may recommend have you thought of doing video lights (Nanlite, Godox, Amaran, etc) reviews? Would love to see em in your honest and in depth style!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate the kind words, always nice to know my videos are useful and appreciated. Although I have reviewed a few lights recently, they've not been very popular. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3ykmGyBgqeChKc

[@barneysaunders6278]

Thank you Maarten, Your reviews are so professional, down to earth and calming too. They create a real sense of community. I chose to get a Fuji XT4 based on your video and now the XH-2. Your videos and these camera have bought such pleasure. I will look out for other videos in your future channels.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That's very kind of you, thanks for taking the time to comment. Always nice to know my videos have been interesting and useful.

[@TheSilverprint]

When I decided to purchase a digital camera I turned to you for a review of the Sony RX100 VI. I eventually bought it and it performed just as you portrayed it in your video. I wasn't disappointed on vacation, and because of your through review there were no surprises. I knew what to expect, thank you. I normally shoot film, and avoid all the fanfare of the latest and greatest. I love technology, but it has a time and place and not all that is new is good or necessary. I hope to continue to see you create, maybe even share some of your film knowledge :) I look forward to what the future brings.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's always rewarding to know that my videos have been helpful and appreciated, thanks for your kind words.

[@the_third_]

Awesome to hear you'll continue to post some content. You're one of the most well spoken content creators on youtube. It's a breath of fresh air to watch a video without a dozen jumpcuts and random zoomer style "funny" edits/transitions

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate that! Always nice to know someone enjoys my old-school videos.

[@YPSification]

Your videos are one of the reasons i bought my first Fuji Camera! Allways liked your videos. Greetings from Germany.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, always nice to read that I've brought photo inspiration to my viewers. Please say hello to all my friends in Germany, especially those in Heilbronn.

[@ollyyung2859]

camera sales are extremely strong, cameras will forever be around. There is just more personal outlets for reviews now. No one wants to see color charts and boring example photos.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I don't feel that's a fair summary of my detailed reviews, and I'm certain most of my viewers would disagree.

[@petermountford4824]

Maarten, very sorry to hear that we'll be seeing less of you. Your work on this channel was really excellent. I always came away knowing so much more about the gear and the photo process. It was a bonus that you were in Canada. I'll still check in to the channel to see what you do next. Thanks for all the great stuff over the years.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

A pleasure to read your kind comment, greatly appreciated..

[@OswaldoLafee]

If you build them, we will come. You are unique and it’s such a joy to see your videos and your angles to everything. Gracias Marteen !

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Wow, thank you for taking the time to comment with your kind words.

[@Jason-fp7vi]

The writing has been on the wall for a bit, it's sad to see the decline of cameras and related media you mentioned. Maarten I wish you the best with the direction of your future content. Your professional, high quality, no frills approach is sure to be a success with any video topic. Excitedly looking forward to whatever you're cooking up. And hope to go for a virtual canoe ride with you again lol. Take care my friend and enjoy this beautiful weather

[@MaartenHeilbron]

What a pleasure to read your kind words, will be going out to enjoy this afternoon, getting myself in shape to travel.