My TOP TIPS For Buying Mirrorless Cameras!

[@Volare318]

This is great. The ritual of getting up and watching sunday morning cartoons in my childhood has been exchanged with watching Zenography episodes on sundays at noon as an adult. There are so many gems in the video library of this channel. Thanks for continuously sharing your thoughts and recommendations in regards to all things photography related.

[@zenography7923]

I'm very glad you're enjoying the videos, thanks!

[@alexblaze8878]

Agreed. He’s the ‘Steve Buscemi meets David Attenborough’ of photography!

[@alexblaze8878]

Agreed! The only issue I have with this channel is that he doesn’t post enough! Also I wish that he would post links for profit because I’ve bought several items he’s recommended and would like him to benefit off of them!

[@jameswburke]

Thank goodness for the "geartographers", who provide us proper photographers with traded-in camera gear ;-

[@unbroken1010]

That's a little bit of the truth but it Stone messing up our industry in certain ways

[@zenography7923]

Indeed!

[@Ben-vg1lw]

Geartographer here: happy to be of service 😃

[@alexblaze8878]

@@Ben-vg1lw all hail the geartographers!

[@kommissarjupiter7667]

Don't know if it's gonna be mentioned or not but here's my layman (5 years semi-professional hobbyist film and digi) advice: Invest in a good sensor cleaning kit !!! Even if you've made as much precautions as possible some dust will gather at some point on the sensor. The cotton swabs with cleaning solution are perfectly fine just make sure to get the right size. You'll spend much less time in editing with a clean sensor. It's even more important if you decide to film with vintage lenses as editing dust out of motion picture is even harder !

[@zenography7923]

That's sound advice, thanks for the tip!

[@migueljalo9731]

I only have 3 lenses but I do exchange between them quite a lot. It’s always amazing to me how much dust my sensor has accumulated once I take a really stopped down picture like at f16 or above. I do have cleaning kits but I’m always so scared of damaging the sensor. I have no idea how fragile it really is. Probably a lot, right

[@kommissarjupiter7667]

@@migueljalo9731 Actually it's not as fragile as many think. In modern cameras there's atleast three filters in front of the sensor. High pass, low pass and UV. Blow the sensor out with one of those air blowers and gently wipe with a cleaning swab.

[@simplexj4298]

Very reasonable tips here! Nothing I would not consider all by myself, but it's nice to to get a reminder from time to time. Well done. By the way: I love the overall calm appearance of your videos. Very relaxing amongst those many exaggerated videos around. And I can sense that you're speaking from personal experience when reviewing, that's really important.

[@Desmond-Hume]

I already know everything that you are saying, but I'm watching anyway, because it is a pleasure to watch :)

[@zenography7923]

Thank you, that's so kind!

[@OccultDemonCassette]

I picked up my A7II for 500 with a battery grip and it's more than enough for me.

[@zenography7923]

Now that sounds like quite a bargain!

[@Potatoverynice]

Hoping to do the same soon too! Glad you're enjoying it!

[@okay1904]

Excellent Video. I have an APS-C Sony Camera, and I use only Vintage manual focus lenses, at this time. Absolutely agree with all the points raised. With one comment. Most of my photography is done in daylight. Therefore the one thing that I thought would be an enhancement, was to one day upgrade to a full frame camera, to get more light on dull days - (I live in Northern Europe), so I could still take pictures on dull windy days, when I need a faster shutter speed. Thanks to this video, I no longer feel inadequate about using an APS-C camera. And can now focus on using it to the best of my abilities without pining for more

[@zenography7923]

I think you've reached the right decision - crop sensor cameras aren't inherently worse than full frame bodies. When shooting vintage lenses, compared to full frame you'll lose (on aps-c) the outer third or so of the image, but that's not a handicap in itself, unless you absolutely must have it! Of course, you could always use a speedbooster on your existing body to capture more of that image circle.

[@sameerrao5834]

Such a wonderful video and great tips, not just for mirrorless cameras but for any gadget in this hyper-social, hyper-marketing age. Well done!

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@HumanClouds]

Excellent tips, another great episode. Always looking forward to your upload on Sunday!

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks Bert, glad you enjoyed it!

[@nolansnook1268]

G.A.S. Attack Averted! I have bookmarked this invaluable video. Thanks to my favorite host, I have now found a possible cure, and will watch this often.

[@zenography7923]

This cured your G.A.S? Maybe I should watch it myself!

[@nolansnook1268]

@@zenography7923 The long march starts with the first step :)

[@alexblaze8878]

Cured? Lol heck no. In my case he ramped it up. I was several months sober..,er I mean GAS-free, but now he’s got me on a spending spree of vintage gear! That being said I’ve gotten great deals on the stuff he’s recommended.

[@Ali.lensman]

Nice leather strap attached to xt1👌my tip regarding budget, split it into half, one half for camera body and one for lenses and accessories, adapters, speedlite, modifiers, tripod etc.. great tips sir, thanks for the video

[@zenography7923]

Thanks Ali, glad you enjoyed it!

[@VolkswagenNut1969]

Out of all the highly technical camera videos out there, this is some of the best advice ever. If you get too caught up in the pure specs or latest numbers and lose the love and connection with photography then the hobby/career/art form of it loses its magic! You don’t have to blow a wad on the latest greatest thing, you just have to get on with your gear and it will help you love what you’re doing. 😊 All great advice, thank you!

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks Tim, glad you enjoyed it!

[@РомкаЯ-с1т]

Simple and genius !appriciate it !thanks )

[@augustineapdrai]

Thank you for your points. Very useful.

[@danielspeis7558]

Loving the comments about the importance of inspiration. My Fuji X100V has inspired me like no other camera I've own. Sometimes, I just like holding it my hands even when I'm not shooting. I find that unless I need the options of interchangeable lenses on my DSLR (or if want to shoot my vintage lenses, which are adapted to my DSLR), my X100V has otherwise become my go-to camera. And it has, without a doubt, improved my ability as a photographic composer and improved my overall skills. So I totally agree with your comments about the importance of inspiration and connecting with the camera because it DOES make big difference to the overall experience of shooting and subsequently, improves the photographic results!

[@zenography7923]

I'm glad you've found a camera to inspire you - enjoy!

[@johnbradshaw5900]

Great video! As well as buying used you can also get good bargains buying obsolete "new old stock". Despite hype in magazines and advertising, digital cameras are a mature technology, and a good camera doesn't stop being good just because it is replaced. I bought my Fujifilm X-E2 (my daily use camera) after it had been replaced and 16MP seen as passed it for 850sgd (£460-ish) with the superb XF 18 - 55 lens and some freebies brand new with full warranty. It's a wonderful camera which does everything I want very well and is a joy to use.

[@zenography7923]

The X-E2 is one of my favourites - very compact, and maybe the nicest Fujifilm stills sensor?

[@pedrohamdan]

Really love your channel, thank you very much!

[@johnlochness]

Great video. I'm thinking of upgrading to full fame, but I keep seeing videos like yours telling me I don't need to, but you're tip about buying better glass instead is a great one

[@zenography7923]

Well, it's just my two penny worth of course but I'm glad if it's been helpful!

[@TheGazmondo]

I wish all You-tubers would watch this brilliant video and the advice. As a lifelong professional the key phrase is , “the camera is a tool” !

[@zenography7923]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks!

[@jb678901]

As only an enthusiast photographer, over the last 2 months I upgraded my M4/3 system from the OLY OM10. I went second hand on a G81 with the battery extended grip, 2x batt, and 12-60 kit lens, for US$465; EXC condition/hardly used. Also, a GX9 with 113 shutter count, again EXC condition., plus grip extension, 1xbatt, and 12-32 kit lens; US$345. I complemented these bodies with OLY 45/1.8 for $160, OLY 75-300 for $150, and LUMIX 20/1.7 for $110. All local purchases of used/EXC equipment via forums OR a little camera store near my office.

[@GeorgeK356]

Happy Easter, Nigel. Another thought provoking video and one which resonates with we gearheads. Need and want are two different things, aren't they. I think deep down we realise that the camera we need we probably already have, we just want something else. I love these Sunday morning chats, it feels like we are all sitting around chewing the fat with you. We all have our opinions, but we all share the same passion for our hobby. Good one, keep 'em coming. George

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks, happy easter to you!

[@mooremob100]

I like your statement “I've been caught out buying the latest” haven't we all, when I started it was every 10yrs I upgraded, now it seems to be every 2/3yrs with digital. I've finally settled on Olympus EP-5 and Olympus EM1 Mk 2. The EP-5 I bought about 5yrs ago I was looking at them in Jessops Canterbury and the salesman was telling me the features what struck me was IBIS and the fact that I could with an adapter use my legacy lenses, several Tamrons that I just count part with, I could easily focus with focus peaking on the body OK no autofocus, I was given recently two Minolta MD lenses, wow when you take your time you get nice pictures very sharp but not as tack sharp as the Olympus. I have several pictures blown up to A4 on the wall and printed off a Colour copier and to be honest, when you look at them you can't tell the difference most people glance at pictures from a distance of one to two metres away. Also, remember that you are using only the centre of the legacy lens and this is usually the sharpest part. Talk about upgrading how many camera bags have we bought over time thinking wow this the best and then seeing another one thinking wow isn't that the best. PS id love a full frame digital but just can't afford it.

[@zenography7923]

Full frame is lovely, for sure - but then so are your Olympus cameras! Enjoy!

[@Itchybiscuit]

I began my digital photographic life with a Panasonic GF1. I then moved through the models, G2 to G3 then the G5. ‘Don’t buy an Olympus, the menu system is too complicated’ was what I heard and read. I bought an E-M5. I got the hang of it in time and moved to the E-M5ii for the ibis. I’ll never move to full frame I said. I was given a loan of a Sony A7 by a friend who was selling it. After a week I bought it for £250. In the Christmas sales I bought an A7ii. Again, for the ibis. I now only have the one camera body and a host of Zeiss, Rollei, Takumar, various Russian and Minolta vintage glass. I won’t be buying another body until the A7ii dies of old age. Yes, I’m that pleased with it. You are absolutely correct in saying that we can ‘click’ with certain cameras and that makes photography a joy. That’s where I am today. Thanks for another lovely video, I always enjoy your output.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, very glad you enjoyed it!

[@Itchybiscuit]

@@zenography7923 On another note, I sent you a message in your FB page. It may have gone to the 'other' folder. I hope you get a chance to read it. Regards, Ivor.

[@calvin3798]

Great vid as always! Refurbed cameras directly from camera manufacturers is another way to go. Probably slightly more expensive than those found on eBay (?) and less choices

[@zenography7923]

That's a great tip, thanks!

[@michel559]

Very good video! Just bought the Fuji X-Pro1 in mint condition for half nothing! Wonderful camera! Simple menu for a mirrorless. Great image quality. Love it Cheers from Switzerland

[@zenography7923]

Enjoy that X-Pro1 - I've heard it's an excellent camera!

[@Paulh65]

One thing worth mentioning is that a significant proportion of reviews are carried out when a camera is first released. Firmware releases for modern cameras can make a significant difference to both handling and performance so when doing your research it’s always worth trying to track down the most recent reviews as they are most likely to be using the latest firmware.

[@zenography7923]

Indeed - thanks for the tip!

[@jamesdouglaswhittaker1811]

Have always needed to handle a camera for comfort before I bought . This policy led to great pleasure in my Olympus OM’s , Nikon FM2’s and so on. Lovely things and a joy to be with. A big but now though - there are so very very few places to be found where you can find and handle.the camera of your interest . Can’t find my way round that and being physically disabled to a certain extent and 16 miles or so from a decent sized town which is difficult for me to negotiate I am in impasse.

[@zenography7923]

It might be solved by ordering a camera online - you could then handle it and if you're not keen just send it back? I do appreciate your problem, having had movement difficulties of my own recently. Hope you're able to find a camera that suits.

[@mawavoy]

Thank you for another highly insightful and well thought out presentation!

[@zenography7923]

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@OdO_Gee]

Very very good advice. Thank you sir. I have bought and sold many a camera. Hi specs or not the camera has to inspire you. This is my dilemma with my Sony A7ii. Technically it’s perfect for me but I have a hard time being inspired by the camera. Pricewise and spec wise it’s excellent. It doesn’t inspire me the way Fuji’s inspire me though. I just wish I could get the full view on my manual focus lenses without needing a speed booster on the Fuji’s. I’ll tell you what I want. I want a camera with Sony specs Fuji body Leica image quality.😂🤣😂

[@zenography7923]

Now that would be a nice camera!

[@fintonmainz7845]

Excellent video as always.

[@zenography7923]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks!

[@Gefterws]

I did get a7s mark 1 for 300 eur with leica lens, and i can tell it was a upgrade for me , it can do realy good in low light , i like that, and i like to take pictures in low light! i know its is more for video and so , but it take good pictures , and 12mp is not a problem. for me exellent camera

[@astore3757]

This is a fantastic video. I'm agree with you! Does it inspire you?... This is a very interesting question! The Zenith 12XP... a cheap camera from USSR inspiring me much more than the Nikon F4!!! About the digital I think the only solution is to buy used and to try. Try and... resell if you don't like.

[@orangorill]

I usually buy used, both cameras and lenses. Got my Lumix GM1 and Fuji X-E1 at a great price, and I'm quite happy with both cameras. This time, however, I'm tempted to buy brand new for once. The X-E4 looks more or less exactly like that 'Leica M on a budget' model I've been waiting for, with a much cleaner look than the previous model, a tilt screen, and bundled with a very promising pancake lens. No crop 4k, webcam functionality and the latest films sims are a nice bonus as well.

[@zenography7923]

It sounds like a lovely camera - enjoy!

[@diba4645]

Again splendid!

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@ДаниилКиселев-у7э]

Thank you for advice! After watching the video about Fuji XT-1 I got one. Amazing camera, which I bought really cheaply. Your video really helped me to make the final decision

[@ДаниилКиселев-у7э]

Before that I only shot with my Zenit TTL, but now I have my three 42-mm lenses on a beautiful digital camera

[@zenography7923]

That's great to hear, glad I could help!

[@zenography7923]

That sounds like a nice set up - enjoy!

[@aidanhowgate5437]

Such a brilliant video! 👏 I spent about 2 weeks researching cameras before I took the plunge and settled on my Canon M50 it's a joy.

[@zenography7923]

I've yet to try the m50 - glad you're enjoying yours!

[@aidanhowgate5437]

@@zenography7923 I hope you get to try one, it gets great reviews for its vlogging qualities, but I don't use that feature, I really should. I generally use it with a Pancolar or Takumars, although I love using the Tamron 500mm mirror lens at present, so sharp and versatile. 🙂

[@messylaura]

same here, the M50 is a great little camera, its like two cameras in one, you can use little tiny lenses and keep everything handbag size or take out a 400-800mm lens and go wildlife shooting. it works great with vintage lenses too, bought mine new bought one for my girlfreind in like new condition from MPB second hand

[@markglynn4713]

I really enjoy your videos which are mostly gear based. However, one of my favourite videos was "10 ways to unleash your creativity". I would love to see more of that type:-) Thanks!

[@zenography7923]

I'd like to do more stuff on technique - currently thinking some ideas through!

[@markglynn4713]

@@zenography7923 Great, I'll look forward to that:-)

[@osliverpool]

Excellent advice all the way there. I feel the same about the A7 too - it just immediately felt right to me, in a way nothing since my OM1 did.

[@zenography7923]

I couldn't agree more, a lovely camera!

[@nicokremers7150]

Exactly. For me the A7(s) is the closest to a digital OM1.

[@standhd]

I’m looking at this vid and using it to adjust my settings on my USED Sony a7iii; and I have a a6000 in my backpack of Sony gear. Great info!

[@zenography7923]

Glad it was useful!

[@amermeleitor]

Thanks for the insights about camera and system purchasing. Now I have a Canon M50 and a M100, paired with 6 old EF lenses. I want to go Full Frame, I don't "need" to go FF, but I doesn't need to have a camera or take pictures too 😅. It's a hobby that makes me happier, not a rationale thing. I'm a cheap man, so the Canon RP or the Nikon Z5 are far from what I can pay without feeling I'm wasting money. So I will look for an used Sony A7, I will sell all my Canon gear and will buy Sony. I know there are cheap AF lenses from Meike, Yongnuo, etc, and of course cheap excellent vintage lenses too. I love having a second camera (the M100 now) and I have seen old Sony Nex dirt cheap, for that occasions when you need more compact camera. I'm a small guy with small hands, so Sony A7 could be better suited for me than Nikon or Canon mirrorless FF gear too. Thanks for the video and information!

[@hoverboverer]

I have the A7 and a few nex cameras. Having small hands, dodgy eyesight and being left eyed I definitely prefer shooting with the APSC (EVF) bodies. The nex 6 is very good and very cheap for what it is.

[@coolito1972]

Wonderful video sir!

[@zenography7923]

Thank you kindly!

[@steveworthington930]

Olympus IBIS is the best, very handy for low light, handheld. OK Fugi has more MP, do you need em? Think it was Steve Onion,s did a test, had a pro printer print out images taken at 16 MP or mega MP, he could not tell the diff. Unless you pixel peep,(who doe,s), no disc diff.

[@kevwalshe7065]

Thanks for this very helpful

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad it was useful!

[@arthurbell9389]

Great video, earned a sub. Ironically I've been trying to decide between the a7 mk1 and fuji T-X2 secondhand.. still haven't been able to make a decision yet😂

[@zenography7923]

Both are lovely cameras, however if you shoot vintage lenses and want to preserve the maximum character of the lens, full frame is probably the way to go.

[@bassgojoe]

I just got a used a7r ii and I love it. The IBIS is way better than I was expecting; my vintage lenses all have stabilization now! The evf with focus peaking and magnification has also made getting focus a sure bet instead of a guess.

[@zenography7923]

You have a very nice camera there - enjoy!

[@davidatkinson1413]

I did the same as a second body to my a7iii. Love it, even though I need a lot of batteries, which I had from my a7ii which went on the fritz.

[@rcatta]

IBIS is available on the Fuji X-T4 but was not for the Fuji X-T3. To your point, a nice feature, but one that may not be completely necessary or worth the upgrade.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks for the info!

[@Dennis-ur9yu]

Superb video, thanks! I found your videos a while ago and AFTER I had bought a brand new Sony A6000, though. :) But I'm pretty happy with the camera. I have bought some vintage lenses (and adapters :)) and I'm currently waiting for a vintage Helios 44M-7 lens being delivered to me from Russia. :) Anyway, thanks again for your videos! I think they are very good and I also think that you are an excellent presenter! Cheers!

[@zenography7923]

The a6000 is lovely - hope you're enjoying it! Thanks for watching.

[@migueljalo9731]

Hi sir, big fan of your work here. Question. I have a Sony a7ii onto which I mostly attach vintage Nikon glass. I have a dumb adapter as they call it. Do you know that it’s possible to get some smart adapter that will allow me to use the ibis inside with these manual focus vintage lenses? Because as of right now I find it a bummer that I have this nice mirror less camera but I can’t use one of its most valuable features. Also, out of curiosity, what do you do for a living besides this KZbin gig? Stay well.

[@zenography7923]

The ibis system is mounted inside the camera body, so it should work with any lens, either ancient or modern! I can't advise more though, as I've never used a camera with ibis!

[@smalljohansson]

Right know I’m shooting with the Lumix Gx8. I don’t know why they removed the weather sealing on the Gx9 because The Gx8 combined with the Lumix 100-300mm mark II it can take a beating. Still , right now my dream kit of cameras would be the Pentax K-1 because it’s power and K-mount, and the OM-1 from OM Systems for nature and bird photography. Why the OM-1? Pro-capture. Not even the Sony A1 can beat it because of that feature. Mike Lane’s KZbin channel has a video about why he chose the OM-1 instead of the Sony A1. He must have been shooting since the 60’s so he knows what he needs. The Sony A1 is almost €8000 vs OM-1 at around €2000. That says a lot in about how quickly the MFT-systems are starting to compete with high end full frame cameras.

[@andrewsmicroscope]

Hey, just wanted to let you know that there was a mechanical watch/clock "ticking" sound through much of the video that was slightly distracting. Love your videos! I've been shooting with an Olympus OM-2N and several of the Zuiko lenses you recommended! Now I'm in the market for a mirrorless camera so this video was helpful. I am thinking splurging on full frame is worth it in order to use my lenses the way I do on my OM-2N.

[@zenography7923]

I would say yes, it's definitely worth it! There's nothing inherently better about full frame as such, but if you want to shoot the old lenses and preserve their full character, it's the best way to do it. Speedboosters are another option of course and they do a very good job, but none that I know of can squeeze quite all of the image onto the sensor - though they do come very close. On balance though, I'd say if you can afford it, go for it!

[@apostolicbible1]

I think the Canon EOS M50 APSC is the best mirrorless camera for the price of which I just purchased one from Canon Refurbished for $378.00 which does 4K video although cropped, but so what for KZbin head shots with numerous Konica Hexanon lenses..preferably the 21mm f4.

[@standhd]

My used Sony a7iii is locking on your eyes quite nicely with that AF function looking at your vid on an Apple iPhone 11 Pro!

[@zenography7923]

Sounds like it has pretty good tracking!

[@protestagain]

I'm a m43 shooter, with both Panasonic GM1 and GM5, then Olympus with EM1 and Pen-F. To those I use Metabones Speedbooster when I'm using Nikkor og OM Zuiko lenses. Then I have several shift and tilt and shift lenses from both Nikkor and Zuiko, and a Canon EF 24/3.5 T&S, and that was the reason why i bought a Canon EOS 5D Mk2. With a shuttercount on just 996 and only used in a studio for about £ 385. In the future, I might buy a Fuji GFX when the right moment is there. By the way, you are one of the reasons, why I bought a OM Zuiko 55/1.2, and that might be the reason for me to buy the 5D. Now I'm just waiting for adapters with focus confirmation.

[@protestagain]

The term, "Full Frame" is a marketing from Canon when only they had 135 format sensors, fifteen years ago. But actually, my m43 cameras are also Full Frame, as long as the sensor covers mye lenses, and visa versa. Well, the right is, Kodak maid the first 135 sensor for both Canon and Nikkor old film kameraes twenty years ago.

[@zenography7923]

That Zuiko's quite something isn't it? I bet it works nicely on the Canon...

[@protestagain]

@@zenography7923It will, when I get the right adapter. Fotodiox was sold out, and I'm trying to get an used one, as I did for Nikkor F. But, at least, I can use it with my m43 cameras with speedbooster. I don't think it will cover the GFX, but at least, I love square images, and I think it will do well. And by the way, I still have my OM-3Ti.

[@protestagain]

@@zenography7923 I have a bad habit. When I find something to buy, I then ask if they have anything else to sell. He with the Nikkor F adapter had an old Nikkor 50/2.0 H to sell, and I bought it. That cheap old lens is one of Nikkors best performing lenses www.naturfotograf.com/lens_norm.html

[@juanluisfurquet677]

excellent tips!

[@zenography7923]

Glad it was helpful, thanks!

[@johnallen3423]

Good advice.

[@zenography7923]

Glad it was helpful, thanks!

[@robthis766]

As always, I really enjoy watching your videos and consequently am building up a little collection of vintage lenses. Although I normally shoot m4/3 because of some great modern glass and a smaller overall footprint, I find myself more often grabbing the Sony A73 with vintage lenses because it is so much fun and I like the rendering of older optics. Last Friday, I took a drive around my home province of Prince Edward Island and took a few photos with the Zuiko 35mm f/2.8, Takumar 50mm f/1.4 and Takumar 135mm f/2.5. My modern autofocus Sony lenses are gathering a bit more dust since getting bitten by the vintage lens bug. I am looking forward to trying out few more lenses ordered on Ebay, namely the Jupiter 11, Zuiko 50mm f/1.4 and Nikkor-S 50mm f/1.4 - all purchases inspired by your enthusiastic and informative reviews. If there is one thing I prefer about the Sony A73 over the Lumix G9, it is the ability to use old 35mm film lenses without a crop factor. It has opened up a much wider world for me to explore. Please google my name to see some images taken with the aforementioned glass on Apr 2.

[@zenography7923]

Hi Rob, glad you're enjoying some vintage glass. There are some very nice images on your blog - I particularly like the decaying taxi - and some very cool astrophotography too! Thanks for looking in.

[@robthis766]

@@zenography7923 Thank you very much for the positive feedback and taking time to peruse my blog. Cheers!

[@TheNitebinder]

Great video on buying a used mirrorless cameras. Because the current prices of mirrorless and lenses are unbelievable. They can turn you away from photography. I would ignore the possibility of insects being in a used mirrorless camera. The reason why I often write on videos several months later, because I'm not on here 24/7 you know. I'll never buy Sony cameras because they look to fragile for my liking.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video! I can vouch for the toughness of Sony cameras by the way - my a7 mark 1 has just clocked 60,000 shots and still works like new. Not fragile at all!

[@alexrogov7186]

Got a used A7s for an equivalent of $400. A real bargain. Unlike the original A7, these are typically used for video and typically have lots of remaining shutter life. This is also the only model in the 1st gen A7 line which has a completely silent shutter option -- a mechanical shutter is relatively loud in every A7 camera. 12 MP is sufficient unless you want to print real big and it doesn't reveal the flaws of legacy lenses that much. Lower resolution is more forgiving in terms of focus accuracy and shutter discipline - even 1/80th with a 135mm lens is quite feasible. The A7s is about the same size as my old trusty OM-D E-M1 which is just crazy given it has 4x the sensor size. I've seen a big improvement in image quality with legacy lenses compared to the E-M1 + speedbooster, especially at the image borders and corners. The only important downside is ergonomics. The grip is okay, but the buttons and dials are downright terrible compared to the E-M1. Command dials have slippery surface and too much resistance so I avoid using them as much as I can. The little dial on the back is usable, although a bit flimsy. Buttons are almost completely flush with the body and have very little travel. C1 button is too small and very hard to locate by feel. I could use the E-M1 or a Nikon DSLR with gloves on without any problem, but with an A7 I wouldn't dare to try.

[@zenography7923]

Nothing's perfect I don't suppose, but my A7 mk1 has served me well, and continues to do so! That A7s really was a bargain - enjoy!

[@fredo1070]

Excellent advice.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad it was helpful!

[@stephenwall9036]

Great advice as ever... off I go to get an old sony a7. Cheers

[@zenography7923]

Glad it was useful - enjoy the A7!

[@flashboyd200]

Thanks..good stuff , never got round to trying video on x t2 . XT1 is the camera i lift first going out the door for the same reasons you have mentioned , for someone wanting stills its good , advantage you don't need loads of ram memory etc , if joe Bloggs then needs a back up xt2 is great . Don't think selling either is the way to go , in my case only . Fujifilm lens are not cheap ! Gas...16 f1.4 . If you have time check out Kentucky man fuji , the last video he made 8 months ago on the xt1 , its horses for courses , thanks for the interment .

[@zenography7923]

Thanks for the tip, glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Whattsuptday60]

Started out around Christmas picked up my first camera, a Sony nex-5n, I just recently bought a Sony a7 for 400 Us dollars :)

[@zenography7923]

Gosh, that a7 was a good find!

[@sclogse1]

I think that wall needs a nice horizontal movie poster from the '40's. Reconditioned may not mean factory parts. Think phone screen replacements. Or those lens assemblies for dust sucking cameras like the Canon Elph 310.

[@zenography7923]

Funny you should say that - I've been looking for stuff to go on that wall! Thanks for the tip.

[@LetsMakeGhosts]

Quick question. I have in the past few weeks purchased the X-T1 based on one of your videos. I love it. I don't record video only take photos. Would I benefit much from the upgrade to the X-T1 or would this be a case of want verses need? Thanks

[@zenography7923]

I guess you're thinking of the X-T2? If you only shoot stills I'd say keep the X-T1 - there's little if anything to be gained from the increase in resolution, and on balance I think I marginally prefer the look from the X-T1...

[@LetsMakeGhosts]

@@zenography7923 Thank you. Yes it was the X-T2. I will stick with the X-T1. I do love it. Thank you.

[@LetsMakeGhosts]

So the more I watched your review on the X-T2 made me want one. I had to purchase one. Just waiting for delivery. Can't wait to take it out this weekend.

[@tuttale]

My number one spec is for a full frame sensor, regardless of brand.

[@Funktrainer]

For obvious reasons.

[@zenography7923]

I do like a bit of full frame!

[@spotsill]

I have the Sony 6000 as well and can understand what you mean . It’s my go to Instagram camera with the flip up screen but the menu is a pain and it doesn’t have easy to use manual modes . Good or bad I think you have inspired me to sale some of my gear because it doesn’t inspire me . My full frame canon dslr takes wonderful photos but it is too big and I just have no desire to use it even with my reasonable lens collection.

[@zenography7923]

It's not a bad idea to have a clear out now and again!

[@crazygeorgelincoln]

I went for new grey imports ,Before eBay was adding tax , there always the chance it will skip customs , especially if the CN form declared used camera.

[@zenography7923]

For sure, grey imports can sometimes be quite the bargain!

[@Cotictimmy]

18m 06s 'Does it inspire you?' I always felt that way about the Nikon FE: it just felt like the designer wanted you to have a really solid camera that was totally intuitive and would last a long time. I feel the same way about my current D3X (which I got for £620 in Jan 2019.) It's not small or light and it's not for low light photography, but for studio portraits it feels right and has great output (despite its age.) Will I go mirrorless? Probably - but I'm no great hurry.

[@zenography7923]

If it serves you well, why change?

[@aerialfilm1]

Forty one years ago on today I landed in England for the first time along with my OM1 and 50mm. That very same lens is now on my recently acquired x-t2 and I can honestly say it feels like I’m seeing the world again with fifteen year old eyes. I’ve had that lens on many an Olympus m4/3 and a Nikon Z6, but noting has given me a welcome and much needed kick in the backside quite like the Fuji has. Now if I can just avoid catching a glimpse my older self in any mirrors or window reflections, I might just be able to keep this delusion going a while longer 😊

[@zenography7923]

I know what you mean, those Fujis are pretty cool aren't they? As for catching yourself in the mirror, well, I know what you mean there too!

[@physiocrat7143]

Last time I looked at them they had no sensor protection when the lens is removed. There ought to be an automatic cap or cover which comes over the sensor when the lens is taken off.

[@zenography7923]

Mirrorless sensors are certainly vulnerable when the lens is removed, it's true!

[@jameslevine6137]

I got into mirrorless (and back into the photo hobby) during lockdown, buying a used 2-generation past Fuji body and a used prime. It was and is such a joy compared to my DSLR experience. I've since indulged in some additional used purchases -... a lot learned in the process, and the pocketbook is still surviving just fine. As an aside, my latest purchase was a real winner - a slim sling bag! It gets my camera out with me when I go out, without having to decide ahead if I want to be shooting or not.

[@zenography7923]

Mirrorless cameras can be quite a revelation - enjoy!

[@messylaura]

i have the M50, great camera, well suited to both small efm and vintage lenses or huge wildlife lenses, huge catalogue of canon glass and third party lenses like sigma who are making some amazing lenses these days for good prices

[@zenography7923]

I must try an M50 soon - I've heard a lot about them!

[@kamilpotato3764]

Bought gx80 second hand last autumn as my first camera. Happy with due to it's size and portability. But fingers crossed will get second hand apsc dslr, apsc mirrorless or full frame. M43 sensor struggles I've noticed in low light and night.

[@zenography7923]

I like the micro four thirds format but it's not at its best in low light. I've found the fujis to be pretty good in this respect, but the sony a7 is better.

[@kamilpotato3764]

@@zenography7923 I took a look on fuji xt1 and xt2. Unfortunately X mount lenses from fuji a bit too pricey for me.

[@as616]

I chuckled at your Zorki 6 comment. I thought the Zorki 6 would be a great upgrade from the FED 2, but can't stand the shutter button location.

[@zenography7923]

A nice camera, but it didn't do it for me, either...

[@bassgojoe]

One other observation, buying used also allows you to turn around and sell the item again with minimal loss if you decide it’s not for you.

[@zenography7923]

Indeed you can, thanks for the tip!

[@jb678901]

I too usually buy used when it comes to camera lenses and bodies. Although I must admit, for the other gear I typically buy new. For instance, I recently purchased a professional camera backpack from TAMRAC, for only US$100; a bag that normally sold for about US$230. Why so cheap? It was the marketing fail of a lifetime. They launched the series of bags a few years ago with the name "CORONA". I bought the Corona-20!!!!! Basically, I got the bag on the cheap because distribution/retail was clearing out inventory.

[@williamcurwen7428]

A very nice review. If I were you, it would be the Fuji XT1 with it’s Trans X II sensor that I would have as a keeper. I work with an XE2s (same sensor) using a very beautiful Classic Chrome sans Kodacolor recipe that is perfect for me.

[@zenography7923]

I must say, I think I marginally prefer the stills from the X-T1 - if only it would shoot decent video!

[@sclogse1]

Fuji needs a Kodak VPS negative setting.

[@HeeCheeFox]

I love your style...

[@zenography7923]

Thanks so much!

[@alan-sk7ky]

Morning, about time for a Olympus OM-D, I have to keep myself from thinking about them... :-\

[@kaplanyx]

Go for it. I purchased a OM-D 5 II in a mint condition (only 3,000 shutter counts) really cheap and enjoy some old zuiko lenses in manual mode. Analog meets digital, what a fun!

[@zenography7923]

It's funny you should say that al, I've been thinking about them quite a bit myself lately!

[@alan-sk7ky]

@@kaplanyx yes but i already have a pen epl8 and the VF...

[@kaplanyx]

​@@zenography7923 I like to hear that after being inspired so much by your videos. I appreciate the look especially of the 5 mark II, it's something similar to my OM-1n. And once you configured all the buttons to your needs, it's so easy to handle.

[@alangamble3236]

@alan I have an epl8 and the E-M5 mkii . You will rarely use the epl8 when you get the 5 . Its a great camera with many more features than the 8 and still in a really compact size. Very well priced on the second hand market too I would recommend it.

[@colinbluth5461]

sage advice as always :)

[@zenography7923]

Glad you think so, thanks!

[@ToothlessSnakeable]

i would like to see a video with the Nikon D700

[@zenography7923]

If one comes my way, I'll do it!

[@georgehuman7253]

How much better is X-T2's EVF compared to X-T1's EVF?

[@zenography7923]

Well, technically it's a bit better I guess, but I must say I never noticed the difference!

[@alexblaze8878]

The UTILS (an economic term indicating “Utilities of Pleasure/Satisfaction”) one gets from buying a used, like-new, Sony a7 is about an 8/10. The UTILS one receives from buying a new a7iii may be a 10/10 but one pays a LOT of money for those extra two utils.

[@zenography7923]

Indeed one does, and this is a great way of explaining it!

[@robinj.9329]

Q. Are we talking about "Digital Image Capture" devices???? I've got a couple, but I consider them to be little more then "Toys for the Kids"! I never use them when "on a PAYING JOB" or for any serious work. You just can't get a "Print" with the quality of a really fine, Professional done, photo engagement. When the day comes, and it won't cost me half the price of the family farm, then maybe I'll switch!

[@zenography7923]

Not sure about toys, but I'd certainly rather have a family farm than a digital camera!

[@Samson1]

Just like with loads of other equipment, buy second hand! For PC desktop parts specifically, there's this stigma around buying used parts with non-techies, and I don't get it. People don't seem to have a clue about how silicone degrades, and then sometimes completely refuses advice from even professionals and ignorently, pointlessly pour out their pockets... I did finally go ahead with upgrading my 550D to a 700D. And I must say; coming from an EOS Rebel 2,000 300 (& V) and an Olympus OM-20. All of these spec names like DualPixel AF I think are very overhyped. Like you say, it's nice to have the fastest AF system (to this date), but how often will that fastest AF be used? For me personally it's less than 90% of all of my shooting. The 700D has video tracking focus. Yes, it's slow to lock on, but it works perfectly once it has? Yes. The camera has all of the features I need. Technology and quality doesn't age. People's expectations and requirements do. But are they yours? Is the real question. 🤔

[@zenography7923]

I couldn't agree more!

[@northstar1950]

Wise words :)

[@zenography7923]

Thanks!

[@scrptwic]

Pentax came out with a new DSLR most of the KZbin videos show them photographing landscapes any Pentax camera will photograph landscapes at a much lower price so instead of spending $2000.00 for the Pentax K3 Mk-3 I bought a used Pentax K3 Mk -11 for $ 600.00 the last generation camera

[@zenography7923]

A smart way to buy, for sure!

[@douggoodhill]

I started with mirrorless cameras when Olympus started their Pen line. This led to a brief switch to Fuji cameras that I thought were a bit better until I switched to a Nikon dslr. I find the mirrorless trend to be total hype - if you can’t sell more $5000 cameras, make the owners think they are outdated and sell them a $6000 camera. Coming from large format, looking at an electronic version of the image compared to studying a real image on ground glass cannot be compared. As the sheep follow the crowd to mirrorless, it is the dslr equipment that is flooding the used market not used mirrorless.

[@Funktrainer]

There‘s nothing wrong with a SLR.

[@zenography7923]

Some years ago I had a Nikon D80 and very much liked it, followed by a D90 - both nice cameras although I preferred the colours from the D80. I do appreciate the smaller size of mirrorless though...

[@douggoodhill]

@@zenography7923 I moved to Nikon DSLR about a year ago when I discovered I could use all my old lenses. I use it (d800e) mostly for digitizing negatives. The X-E3 with a 27mm 2.8 I thought was a fantastic combination. My serious work is mostly with 4x5 and when I was younger 8x10.

[@douggoodhill]

@@Funktrainer Absolutely! I still own and use a Nikon F2.

[@Funktrainer]

@@douggoodhill I have three motorized F2s (F2 Photomic, A, AS), one F5, three digital F5s and a D4. All in use regularly. The F2 is still one of the finest photographic tools ever made. I also have a F Tn on the shelf for nostalgic reasons.

[@hoverboverer]

Personally, I hate owning anything that I have to be too precious about. My rule is not to buy anything I can't afford to replace. For that reason, even if I was given a top of the line 5 grand camera, I suspect it would likely be left at home most of the time. What's the point of that?

[@simonhodges6084]

A tough choice. XT1 or XT2? I'm willing to bet that you keep both of them for their different qualities. You're saving loads on your vintage lenses, why scrimp on your already cheap bodies?

[@zenography7923]

I'd like to keep them both, but realistically one will have to go...

[@simonhodges6084]

@@zenography7923 For the extra video capabilities and faster shutter speeds it will have to be the XT2 then. Fuji cameras really excel at capturing colours of flowers. If you have any tulips in the garden at the moment they make really nice subjects especially if you have them in pots and can arrange them in an quasi outdoor studio environment. I find it best when shooting with the sun behind them when leaves and petals are nicely illuminated and semi transparent.

[@leilasmama01]

Where is a good place to acquire vintage lenses on the cheap?

[@zenography7923]

I wish there was an easy answer to this! I've found lots of bargains on ebay but only from time to time - the key is patience and perseverance - you really have to look every day. Good luck!

[@leilasmama01]

@@zenography7923 I’ll be watching! ☺️

[@punkrachmaninoff]

To wit; the X-T3 has no IBIS.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks for letting me know - just as well I didn't buy it!

[@punkrachmaninoff]

@@zenography7923 Yeah, the X-H1 might be a good idea if you're looking for entry level with IBIS. Not to be a smarmy jerk, I just thought I would mention it.

[@jan-martinulvag1953]

Panasonic gx80 is good for video

[@kamilpotato3764]

Bought last autumn as my first camera. I'm quite happy with it but low light and night photography leave a bit to desire. think at some point of this year maybe will get apsc or full frame for those situation.

[@jan-martinulvag1953]

@@kamilpotato3764 eos M100 is very good apsc and cheap used. Panasonic lx100 is good at low light video

[@zenography7923]

So I've heard, Panasonic seem to take video capabilities seriously!

[@redsphoto6708]

Lovely video as always and great tips! Tbh I am a bit upgrade prone myself. Personally I think upgrades are worth more when they add useful quality of life stuff. Like for example, I am very happy with my Sony A7-3, and wouldn't upgrade to an A7-4 just for more megapixels or better auto-focus. But if that 4 includes some useful things like a tilting screen that makes videos easier or a better viewfinder that just makes the camera more of a joy to use (inspiration and all that) then I would strongly consider it... If anything I wouldn't want many more megapixels because the vintage lenses I love so much work far worse on higher mexapixel sensors >_< It is weird I tend to think of older digital cameras as inherently outdated (unlike older film cameras which still carry some 'charm') but the other day I watched a video (this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2WuXpl-fKl9hac ) comparing a 15 year old Nikon dslr to their modern mirrorless version and lots of comments just preferred the color and rendering of the older sensor. I guess those sensors sometimes carry a bit of irreplaceable charm sometimes too huh.

[@zenography7923]

Some of the early digital slrs are said to have a more film-like feel - I used a Canon 5d mk1 recently and its images looked decidedly more old school than more recent cameras.

[@unbroken1010]

Karate chop !!🐺🤷😛😛

[@zenography7923]

:)

[@twagn]

What's interesting on KZbin are comments that focus more on the reviewer than the content. One review was getting all kinds of positive comments but it was painfully obvious this person had no idea what they were talking about and was spreading all kinds of false information.

[@zenography7923]

I guess we need a built in nonsense detector when looking for info on the internet!

[@richardbest3575]

Has anyone tried the newyi 1.6 cctv lens on mirrorless the level of bokeh is superb for the money

[@zenography7923]

I haven't, but many of them are very nice!

[@richardbest3575]

@@zenography7923 I was blown away by it using one on my Olympus om d....£20 plus the adaptor

[@fares_of_arabia]

for some reason KZbin doesn't like your channel, I keep getting unsubscribed. Maybe you should have a word for them.

[@zenography7923]

I'm sorry to hear that, that is rather odd. I'll try to resolve it, thanks for letting me know.

[@alexblaze8878]

It’s sort of like buying a one year old car....a lot of money saved for a virtually new product.

[@zenography7923]

Exactly! Personally I much prefer old cars to new ones anyway!

[@sreejeshsivaraman]

I should have waited for this video before purchasing a Nikon ☹️ It's difficult to adapt vintage lenses in Nikon F mount because of the high flange.

[@Funktrainer]

There are tons of excellent Nikkors out there for the F mount and also lots of beautiful lenses from Angenieux, Carl Zeiss, Tamron, Tokina, Schneider-Kreuznach, Sigma and Voigtländer which serve the Nikon F mount very well. Plenty of glass to discover for the next one-hundred years.

[@sreejeshsivaraman]

@@Funktrainer yeah, but focusing to infinity is the problem. Most of the m42 lenses I have require additional optics in-between to achive focus to infinity

[@Funktrainer]

@@sreejeshsivaraman The F mount is not meant to adapt lenses on, just use native glass and you will be happy. Why have you bought a Nikon? For your M42 lenses???

[@zenography7923]

I wouldn't worry too much - there's loads of wonderful vintage Nikon glass that will mount straight onto your camera - with no need for adaptors!