MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY with NIKON Z MC 105mm | Bts: best light, tripod vs handheld photography

First day doing macro photography with the NIKKOR Z MC 105mm macro lens. Not a review - just a morning in nature. Behind the scenes about light quality and handheld vs. tripod. Timecodes in description.
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••• CHAPTERS •••
00:00 - The trip starts + photographing
02:32 - Photographing flowers
03:30 - Sunrise and photographing insects
06:22 - Photographing flowers in the meadow
08:36 - Behind the scenes - Intro
09:22 - Promotion
10:07 - Behind the scenes - The best light for macro photography
12:55 - Why I get up at 4 am in the morning
14:08 - NIKKOR Z MC 105mm + handheld vs tripod
16:30 - My grip and two custom settings for macro photography
Wildlife Live stream from my backyard: • Wildlife in the forest...
••• FOLLOW ME •••
Join my newsletter: geni.us/morten-newsletter
Instagram: / mortenhilmer
Website: mortenhilmer.com
••• FINE ART PRINTS •••
shop.mortenhilmer.com/
••• ABOUT THIS VIDEO •••
Location: Northern Denmark.
I haven't been out doing macro photography for a long time, but I have really been missing it. This summer I could feel the inspiration returned and I got an urgent need for crawling around in the forest, exploring the mysterious and beautiful world hidden in the vegetation. I have been using the Sigma 150mm macro (the old one) for many years but I decided this was the time to upgrade to a version with image stabilisation. This would give me the freedom to shoot more handheld.
I got my hands on the new Nikon Z MC 105mm macro lens and already now I can say that I love that lens. First of all it is a joy to get rid of the ftz adapter and second the autofocus and the vibration reduction is just awesome.
This is my first trip with the lens, but I am pretty sure, it will be in my photo back for many more trips in the near future.
In the Behind the Scenes I am telling about why I get up so early, about how I check the "quality" of the Light and a bit about the pros and cons of tripod vs handheld.
••• WHO I AM •••
My name is Morten Hilmer and I am a professional nature and wildlife photographer.
I work as a ILCP photographer, and nature conservation is very close to my heart.
I have served in the Danish military special unit, the Sirius Patrol, for two years and that has given me the skills and confidence to operate alone in the arctic regions. I have spent two further years in the northern parts of Greenland meeting the local people and working on photography projects. My driving force is a sense of adventure and my fascination for nature, and my curiosity and empathy for other cultures has led me to many remote regions.
Read more about my time in the Sirius Dogsled Patrol: www.bbc.com/earth/story/201602...
Beside being featured in publications and in my books books my photographs have been awarded in the Wildlife photographer of the year and European Wildlife photographer of the year photo competitions.
••• SOME GEAR SEEN IN THE VIDEO •••
Nikon Z6 + Z6II
NIKKOR Z MC 105mm
Gitzo Tripod with RRS 055B ball head
Rode Videomic NTG
••• MUSIC •••
Nordic Cinematics: nordiccinematics.dk/
Bensound.org
Musicbed.com
I am also using Epidemic and Artlist for my videos.
Epidemic let you customise the music by muting the stems. Get 1 month for free by using my affiliate link: bit.ly/ep-music
Artlist is another great music service that is not limited to use on KZbin. I use it a lot, and you'll get 2 extra months on your subscription by signing up using this link: bit.ly/music-artlist
See you out there !
All the best
Morten Hilmer

[@Hrishi1970]

Dear Morten, I have realised that your videos, especially this one, is extremely practical and informative. However, I must confess, they are almost therapeutic! Your soothing words, choice of background music and the almost dream like footage is so calming! Loveing it! By the way this Nikon lens rocks!

[@MortenHilmer]

I’m so glad you like it and I really appreciate your nice compliment. Thanks a lot

[@alfafoxtango]

I almost fall asleep 🤣

[@markmay8942]

"Coffee and a Video with Morten Hilmer". Always a great way to start the day!

[@syedzohair]

Just came back from a run. Gonna cook some food and enjoy eating while watching this❤️

[@jasonswartzbaugh3925]

Very jealous of your landscape and how your living. These are my goals and we're getting there. With that being said, the morning there is very magical. Your a very blessed man. Keep up the great videos and love the knowledge. Your production value is top notch, as always. I hope more people discover your channel and appreciate all the effort your putting into these videos.

[@bsmukler]

What a perfect Sunday morning treat, including the birdsong soundtrack!

[@ninakrzyzanskinaturfotografie]

What a BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL Video! It warms up the heart, calming the mind and the coffee tastes even better! Warm greetings from Austria!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thanks a lot Nina. Always a nice, positive compliment from you😀

[@ninakrzyzanskinaturfotografie]

@@MortenHilmer :-)

[@livisunshine3700]

I don't drink coffee but my chamomile tea tastes even better! Blessings!

[@larsalfredson2752]

Alltid lika intressant och läcktra bilder samt ” a cup of coffee ” 🤗

[@zigzag235]

Morten, your dedication and love for photography never ceases to fill me with joy. You truly love what you do and it shows though it’s fullest when you speak about photography. Thank you for your videos that inspire a amateur photographer like myself to get out there and play. With love from Canada.

[@ketomaupa]

Hello Morten! It's great to see you again! :-) Thanks for the video, now it's time to watch it and enjoy it with a cup of coffee. Have a nice day!

[@jeanepaulsoliva8039]

taking a short break from programming, relaxing and watching some morten hilmer video.

[@FloAndre.]

I swear , 5 minute before i was wondering when you will posted new video 😁

[@lilapulover]

I love your point of view, Morten. Amazing pictures as always.

[@brianpinn7667]

Love the Cuckoo at the end, not hear one while out in the South West of UK for a few years now

[@steenmogensen1220]

Early Sunday morning here in Colorado, coffee and quiet time for me while enjoying another wonderful video from you Morten. As always full of inspiration, advice, and tranquility. Your eye for the details and beauty in nature, and you down to earth pleasant calmness is such a joy to watch. Thank you for sharing your passion and your beautiful images with all of us, and for taking me back to the old country once again, I am already looking forward to the next time!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thanks a lot Steen and thanks for your great work in the live stream chat👍👍

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

Whoa! Morten Hilmer shooting on a small scale without the huge telephoto? Who knew your talents extended to the tiny as well? Beautiful shots.

[@MortenHilmer]

Haha thank you so much 👍

[@dutchy5406]

Just got this lens the other week and it has been a blast to use. Cannot wait to experiment with it more.

[@antonioperegrino9973]

morten your videos are fascinating, thank you for showing us nature and its exuberant simplicity

[@laku4412]

Thank you for this beautiful video! I could almost feel the dew on my legs and the first rays of sun on my skin.

[@randallknudson9238]

I don't know what I like more, Morten's amazing photography or those great cups of coffee from that thermos. Love that squeaky sound. My favorite photographer since Jim Brandenburg. Morten, you're a true naturalist and bushcrafter. Great video!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thank you so much for your kind words 👍👍

[@antonoat]

Beautiful film and beautiful music and birdsong ! Thanks Morten for sharing this with us.

[@hjones451]

Woodland Photography and especially with a Macro lens first thing in the morning, is SO soothing - Really enjoyable video - I think your voice and this pastime could de-stress the world.

[@liesbethdisbergen4472]

thanks Morten. Just bought this lens, still have to practise, your video helps

[@patricksnodin4187]

A wonderful start to my day, thanks Morten.

[@friedrichrehm79]

I love your Videos. Every time watching them take me out of my daily life🙏

[@JPLamoureuxsTravels]

i love shooting macro, it's a whole new world to discover every time you look through the viewfinder, really enjoyed this one bud ❤️👌 awesome 👏

[@salomekruger4176]

Thanks Morten, you are a good inspiration and teacher.

[@ruban93raj46]

a perfect example for dynamic range. well explained

[@Don19762]

Your videos are so inspiring to me. When I'm in a slum I just watch your videos and I got refreshed will to get out there! Thank you!

[@cindyconlin1]

Macro photography is so much fun in the summer months! Loved your beautiful video!

[@randyschwager2515]

Beautiful images! I love the concept of NO RULES! Thanks for sharing!

[@MariusSc]

Your videos calm me down so much. Thank you 🖤

[@phillloyd47]

Love a new Morten on a lazy Sunday!

[@iastorgaphotos]

I’ve been encouraged to do more macro photography to show the pollinators (I.e. bees, birds) that help spread flower and plant seeds in our parks. Your photos demonstrate the tiny world we sometimes miss when out in Nature. Thank you and here’s wishing you a great rest of the week!✨🌿🤗

[@I_like_ike]

Great video. Your love for the art makes the content that much better.

[@jakebrowderphotography]

Please keep up the beautiful work Morten your videos inspire me to be a better photographer.

[@CLESZAEN]

thanks you for the review , your voice is very softly , thank you again !

[@briansquibb999]

Thank you for the advice...

[@charlenenagel7962]

Beautiful Morten! And thanks for the tips!

[@bryantharmon8531]

At last another video ,I enjoy watching your videos they're just not enough of them .

[@dinnersat630]

Can't wait to enter this magical world. It will be my first macro lens and spring is just starting here in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. The snail shot is so incredibly lovely. Even putting a series of macro videos together with a relaxing song would be just delightful. Wonderful little worlds all around us.

[@noeleb8538]

Excellent video with great tips and advice. Thank you for continuing to share your wisdom and experience.

[@BHMRmapache_ancestral_B5889]

this reminds me how Antoine Desilets describe fothography in his books, amazing

[@kevins8575]

Nice compositions. First time I've seen you use a short lens.

[@VaiCatt]

We love you and your creativity Morten Hilmer

[@carlosenriquez2092]

Just stumbled onto your videos most excellent work much envy much respect. It was five years ago I took the plunge, a second-hand camera, and lens. Drove to the state park. Arrived before first light,a plastic trash bag to protect my camera in case of rain and five lense wipes is all I carried. I learned so much about what my camera can do. I also learned how therapeutic photography can be. I recommend everybody do this. Set yourself free by limiting your options.

[@KanuckGaming]

Holy crap. Picturing the clouds as a "softbox for the sun" never occurred to me before (as a beginner photographer). That is such a good way of looking at it, and helps me understand how the light impacts subjects and photos. Thank you so much!

[@jasonnbuck]

Great video 👍. I have just got a macro lens and I’m about to start showing this week. Love the out of focus one all ways good to be different 👍. Keep pushing the boundaries. Love you videos and your work 👍

[@madst7521]

Got my 105mm MC Friday but haven't had a chance to put it through its paces yet. My favorite way to shoot is Manual Focus, set to the closest setting and then moving the camera back and forth to achieve focus. This also gets me 1:1 and a very shallow DOF.

[@spockasmick]

Jealous. I ordered mine from Adorama the day it went up for presale...and it's been on backorder ever since. Enjoy!!!

[@livisunshine3700]

I wish I could have an entire wall covered with all of your photos, I admire your dedication and I love the fact that you love what you do. Blessings!

[@neilthacker2069]

I have been spending more time lately shooting macro images...the new perspective on a smaller world I find very exciting. Some very fine images Morton,look forward to the next video !

[@MortenHilmer]

Yeah there is something very special and calming about this kind of photography.

[@berniestang2616]

Extremely peaceful… definitely soothing !!!!!

[@juinchakma2265]

A lot of things have to learn from your photography dear sir💝...

[@jairocruz-rua9079]

Thanks for this video! I just got the 105 MC and now I’m waiting for spring here in Alaska!

[@darrendavy4248]

Excellent video, loved this, beautiful images, inspiring!

[@NicolajVR]

I always get excited when I see a notification from you Morten! - Elsker dine videoer, specielt når jeg ikke selv lige har muligheden for at komme ud! :D

[@KaranSharma-rp4mu]

Your videos are so relaxing and it feels like that I am also living that moment........that's true creativity.......hats off sir 🙏

[@notreal_ynw]

I got a lot of tips for photograph from your video. I very like your video!

[@juliusebnerphotography5374]

Damn some scenes just blew my mind. Keep up the great work, Morten! You are the best!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thanks a lot Julius👍👍

[@SteveHedgesPhotography]

Really enjoyed this video, I love macro photography, especially dragonflies and damselflies. Look forward to your next video.

[@Ty94797]

Your videos are all masterpieces, thank you for everything :)

[@kimlinstead40]

Loving your vlogs and photography. Can't wait for the English version of your book later in the year. X

[@zledwon]

Inspiring! thx

[@NecatiErsin]

vov super video

[@andersj.pedersen1106]

Another great one. Thanks for some Nice tips👍🏻

[@pavelperina7629]

You can try still life photography as well, I like that scene with watering can at 0:41 :)

[@sassytbc7923]

These are beautiful!!!!

[@efeefeefeefeefe]

Heyyo! Nice timing for my icecream!

[@envyrish]

Morten Hilmer,.. The Bear Grylls of photographers Excellent video, Nikon colours are my favourite.

[@HisLightandCo]

The most peaceful photography video I have witnessed on YT as of late. Thank you very much for a thorough review with a break taking view. Lovely photos you captured sir. Cheers!

[@photographyadventuresbygraciel]

Beautiful pictures Morten!! From one KZbin wildlife photographer to another! Keep up the great work!!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thank you so much👍

[@Walkinginthewoods]

Really good to hear your approach to macro. I like the idea that your pictures do not have to be 100% in focus. I have spent years trying to get the sharpest wildlife pictures. It is a freedom to aim at the feeling you have rather than technical perfection all the time.

[@warrenlloyd7532]

Great video Morten. I've just started getting into a bit of macro, although I'm only using extension tubes at this stage. Certainly offers very different challenges to landscapes and wildlife, but great fun

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Excellent video. I'm very much enjoying my MC 105, as well. Great for stills and video.

[@johnteachhakchhuak1112]

Finally thanks for this video

[@miltiades8822]

So underrated channel, I really enjoy watching all of your videos, some day I was like: maybe I'll be a wildlife photographer. I searched some on yt and found this channel, it keeps my faith that I will be photographer one day like you 👍👍

[@desitraveller8232]

Your point of view is awesome...

[@papanpal3208]

Very beautiful presentation sir, love the the video with very beautiful macro photographs. The soft light makes it more beautiful. Love from India sir ♥️

[@adelheidsnel5171]

Oh so wonderful

[@johnnyszczepanski9181]

Nice soundscape thx again for sharing

[@Chris-13]

Exquisite photos and narration , thank you 🙏🙏

[@SamClarkPhoto]

Great to see you again Morten! :)

[@alanjones8579]

Thank you for making this video, very enjoyable ❤️

[@weedavo04]

Wow love your videos !!

[@malcolmdillaway8274]

Great video and presentation Morten just purchased the lens so looking forward to getting out, I found your video very relaxing and informative thank you

[@lensman5762]

Nice photography. Thank you.

[@NikCan66]

Always brilliant video

[@RT-rt9rt]

Morten, you're superb. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I like your presentation style...

[@CookedLight]

Such a calming video, cheers 🤘🏻

[@BAYWATOFFICIAL]

i really love your photography

[@VideoHunter84]

Beautiful photos...I enjoyed this video...thank you for sharing Morten... Best regards VideoHunter from Slovakia 😉

[@p4inmaker]

MF and focus peaking on the Z bodies are so nice, I rarely use AF anymore for macro stuff.

[@isotechimages.9130]

So just 2 days ago l was wondering where is Morten and like magic here he is. Even in macro you have your own unique and beautiful style. I too picked up the Z105 mc lens recently but l don't get the magic out of it that you do.

[@KGsPhotography]

Excellent video Morten you make one of the hardest forms of photography for me look so easy with stunning images. I will get out and practice more. Cheers Keith

[@MortenHilmer]

Thanks a lot Keith

[@the_greens._4445]

Super camera

[@karlgunterwunsch1950]

A nice set of macro shots - and all without that faffing about with focus stacks or flash. The only thing I might add is that using a diffusor you can sometimes expand the times when you got soft light in macro photography, especially for smaller subjects - and wind isn't a constant. If you use a tripod you can wait for the wind to die down, which in my experience expands the times when good results can be achieved another hour or so in the morning and gives you another working window in the evening.

[@JeffJolly1]

Nice images, nice information, nice calming atmosphere in the video. Very inspiring ♥

[@erwinwinarno]

Great work Morten👍👍👍

[@analogoutdoors]

For steadier shots handheld I use a strap shortened and wrap my left hand in it as I bring the camera to the eye.

[@emb3rke]

I recommend getting a focus rail for macro photography. It is a very handy and inexpensive tool to move the camera easily just millimeters in any direction on the tripod.

[@cristianandreica5665]

Thank you for video, sir!