New Camera System Makes No Sense -Do Not Switch!

[@mattisulanto]

So many excellent comments below. It's a little overwhelming and I can't reply everyone. However, I do really appreciate and read all the comments. Many thanks to all commenters!

[@zenonbillings9008]

its well deserved matti ! zen billings

[@glennsak]

Bravo! You've really touched a nerve with this topic.

[@ninjaspam2000]

You should do a follow-up video on when it is a good idea to change systems and how to vet for systems. I invested into the Nikon 1 system and two years into having the camera I had a lens die they fixed it under warranty and then a second lens failed. I went looking to see if I could just get a new lens and found out that Nikon had dumped the entire system. So here I was looking at a camera that was eventually going to become obsolete or cost more than I spend on the camera just keeping the lenses in maintenance. At the time I was looking at the system I was debating whether I should go with Nikon or the micro four thirds. And I regret not going for the micro four thirds. Cuz even if I had decided I wanted to get a different camera body my lenses would have carried. If I had a lens fail other manufacturers made lenses, but with the Nikon you could only get Nikon lenses.

[@mattisulanto]

@@ninjaspam2000 Why not, because there are reasons to switch. Thanks for the idea.

[@marekanatol650]

@@mattisulanto What you have said is probably usually true, but not always :) I have switched the system 2 years ago, and here are my thoughts: - I strongly believe no features will ever come to my old system (Nikon APSC DSLR) - as it is, in fact, getting abandoned - features do not always come to the system; I don't think Fuji X-Trans matrix (which I really love for its noise characteristics, once I realized it I don't want to go back to Bayer matrix) will come to any other system any time soon - and sometimes features get removed; example: vertical grip and dual card slots (both very important for me) were available in Nikon D7x00 series for years, but with D7500 they got removed; now there are rumors that the upcoming Fuji X-T5 will not have a vertical grip either - for me this is a serious usability problem, as about 1/3 of my photos are vertical; I really hope Fuji will see a loss of sales and a lot of unhappy voices; I expect I will want to upgrade my X-T4 some day - cost and time to get used to new gear... true, even the lenses has to be turned the other way to attach/detach them, just about everything works differently. But... there used to be a COVID outbreak, I had to cancel all my travel plans (and I travel a lot - this is where I take almost all my photos), so I had plenty of money to spend on new gear, and plenty of time to learn it near home But I agree that switching systems, for example, every 2-3 years is just insane. Regards!

[@michaelhall2709]

I think gear commands more attention on KZbin than actual photography for two basic reasons: (1) many men are technofetishists at heart, and (2) at the end of the day it’s actually much easier for many of us to acquire the funds to purchase top-level gear than it is to acquire the talent or skill necessary to make full use of it. Note that I definitely don’t exclude myself, and in fact am speaking from experience.

[@artemt1987ify]

Totally agree. Actually I think it’s time to start a new era of camera gear. We forget photography and videography and start exercising dynamic range, bokeh, noise ration and etc. Open new KZbin where people start making “Vlog with best bokeh”, “traveling to Thailand with 16 stops of dynamic range camera”, “shot in prores 422 how to fry egg at home”. I would enjoy watching these kind of videos 🤣🤣🤣

[@ChanJENI]

I, personally, also find that videos about photos don't actually teach me anything. Photographers seem to talk about whether they're happy with their photos, whether they got good light, or whether they were happy with their compositions, without explaining why or what they're talking about. They break down camera specs, and make direct comparisons when talking gear. They don't do that with their actual photos, and don't give a real sense of why they feel how they do, or directly compare what they think works with what they think doesn't. I can make personal decisions about the hardware I might want to buy and use based on gear reviews. I can't really make decisions about how to take better or different photos based on videos of photographers just taking photos and showing the results to soothing background music.

[@Tarets]

Or maybe the technical aspects are changing faster than the photography techniques themselves? It's like complaining people watch car reviews instead of watching how to drive them.

[@drbarnack1885]

Spot on. It’s easier to buy something than it is to get good at something.

[@pbeeby]

Great point. It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying things rather than doing things. Buy a UTE and dream of living outdoor lifestyle, buy a boat and dream of fishing trips etc. we are sold commodities as lifestyles everywhere and hard to resist.

[@rayjennings3637]

As soon as this chap said, "... 99% of all KZbin watching camera users love gear more than photos or photography.", I hit the like button. I've been using Pentax SLRs and DSLRs for 40 years and only a couple of times have I been tempted by the Dark Side! Learning how to use your camera properly makes you a better photographer, not the latest equipment. Sure, you can try new styles and types of photography with additional gear but you still need to take photos to learn. Ditching your Beckstein piano and buying a Steinway doesn't make you a better pianist! The only reason I might change now, at 74, is for something lighter.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks for the like and the comment too.

[@packerbacker63]

I started using my film camera's again and I did purchase a Canon M50 Mark2. When I post my photo's they are as I took them if I did any adjustments using a photo editor I state that. Get to know your camera, Shutter speed, Apature and ISO, adjustments to these can create masterpieces.

[@enricomarconi1767]

Absolutely. Hardly anyone talks about photography these days. It’s all about gear!!

[@Droidzi]

👍"As soon as this chap said, "... 99% of all KZbin watching camera users love gear more than photos or photography.", I hit the like button." likewise :) in my view - just to add some science behind my comment - the physics and beauty of light, the elements of a 'good photo', the mechanics and nuances of photo editing and RAW processing software/techniques don't change over time (aside from UI upgrades) - so why the constant craving to 'swap systems'?

[@Tarets]

@@Droidzi And of course you are in that 1% XD Get over yourself people.

[@drtod]

During my life time I have switched systems from APSC to FF, FF to MF, and today I am using MFT. Many of you will raise an eyebrow over that one. Reason: as the grey in my hair becomes dominate, I don't want or need heavy lenses and camera bodies. Especially after I was introduced to Voitlander native MFT lenses, those lenses paired with my OMD gives me the roughly equivalent shot with my former FF rig. The difference is my back and knees thank me every time for moving to MFT. I am much happier and don't need large heavy equipment/lens to make a statement on location.

[@Pasta221]

that's awesome! at the end of the day it's not about what tool you use (or its size), but the photographer! sometimes i encounter interesting photo opportunities and all I have on me is my phone, and those images are just as good as the ones with my FF camera, so in the end it's about the photographer/photograph rather then what it was captured with! also taking care of your back is what matters the most in my opinion! 👌🏻📸

[@njrivetelite]

If you achieve the results you want with your gear, that is all that matters

[@zenarobinson3851]

omd = Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. mft = managed file transfer. now i know! ;-)

[@WritewheelUK]

I went from 35mm rangefinder (VitoB) to Yashicamat 24G 6x6 twins lens reflex back in my youth and early 20s. I then went for Minolta 35mm SLR. I had that for decades, updating the body once. When the Panasonic micro 4/3rds G7 came out I wandered over to Park Cameras and, with no obvious pressure at all, they let me play with a whole selection of cameras. The G7 felt great in my hands, I liked the lack of weight, as my back and knees don't seem to work so well now. With the standard 14/140mm (28/280 old money) lens is what I use for most stills. I have the 100/300mm (200/600) I have the same range that for my loved Minolta took five lenses. Heavy ones at that. I also have the 25mm (you can work it out) Leica that I use for video mainly. Stunning results. I'm not a gear guy, just going with what I like, but the G7 is the best I've ever had. Mind you, I'm with the others who've suggested you should go for what suits you. Go to camera shops rather than take advice from others. Work out what's comfortable in your hands and wallet. If you buy from a shop, like Park, if you have problems, you can return and argue. I've got a total of three cameras: a Pan G2, a Pan TZ50 and my G7. All just what I want. But, and a big but, don't take my advice other than go play with other cameras and pick the one that suits you. The bloke who wins most competitions at my camera club uses a compact. He takes wonderful photos. (We all hate him.) Gear doesn't matter.

[@BackFocus11]

Preach.

[@Galeidan]

"Amateurs worry about gear. Professionals worry about money. Masters worry about light."

[@mattisulanto]

That is so true😀

[@pedrobartolomei7707]

Bravo!

[@BARKERPRODUCTION]

Not really true. Professional cinematographers discuss the pros and cons of equipment all the time.

[@williamreymond2669]

And travelers worry about weight. I actually did wind up switching systems a couple of years back from full-frame-RF-glory to Micro 4/3 because I could not carry a full frame system 450km across southern France on foot when I also had to carry everything else I needed to live on my back at the same time. Still, even M43 was still punishing to my feet, but I got some great photos.

[@taterandy3958]

Good point!

[@shattered115]

You are so correct. The cameras are the tools. The photographers are the craftspersons and artists.

[@harryvuemedia]

Both the camera and the photography need each other. One cannot capture the image without the other.

[@sittnerge1]

You remind me of my father telling me the things I didn't want to hear. Thank you for your honesty, I'm sorry there aren't more content producers like you. Greetings from Argentina.

[@ivarnordlkken8082]

I have had Pentax for almost 40 years, from my first Pentax MESuper to my current Pentax K70. Except for one camera (Minolta Vectis S1) I have only used Pentax. It's perfect for my needs. And I have 40 year old lenses I still use.

[@grahvis]

I acquired a Sony A7 just to use my Pentax lenses with. I have a Pentax K70 but I don't find focus indication very certain with the manual lenses, I wish they had the film split image viewing screens. I still have an ME Super, a Super A and an MX.

[@coriscotupi]

I still use the Canon 20D which I bought in 2004, and it has been serving me quite well. Yes, newer sensors would of course deliver better low-light performance with less noise, but that's not my cup of tea. So as long as the 20 is alive, I'm using it. So far, 18 years and counting.

[@ActualCounterfactual]

It used to be my go-to shooter back in the old days when I did weddings and stuff... it is built like a tank... so 18 years and counting does not surprise me... you might get another 18 on this LOL

[@cun_0092]

And here I thought shooting with a 10yr old Nikon D7100 was crazy enough for main events. I was thinking of migrating to fuji but after coming across this video I think I will stay in the Nikon environment but upgrade to FF from apsc.

[@z4570]

Finally, some common sense in a world where it is so hard to find. The hardest part of taking/ making a picture is composition and the creative mind and not so much the gear.

[@NathanBuildsRobots]

All you need to get amazing photographs is: - a camera you know how to use - 1 or 2 nice lenses Once you have that setup you'll learn a lot more by walking around looking for things to photograph! Gear reviews won't teach you the essential photography skills! Thank you for being a voice of reason. I spend too much time watching gear review videos. The stuff is fascinating space-age technology, so it's hard to not get sucked into it.

[@Mr_Glenn]

4 lenses, 3 minimum. 2 zoom lenses, one that goes wide to medium, one that goes medium to far. 1 or 2 nice fast primes.

[@tap6943]

Definitely non-sponsored video. Totally agree. Thank you.

[@TacoTeaser]

I totally agree. So many think brand and gear is sooo important. Back in the 70's I sold cameras. I often told customers the best camera to have is the one with film in it. That attitude holds true today. How to get a good picture? "f8 and be there"

[@definingslawek4731]

Why f8?

[@fepatton]

Hah, yes! I told a coworker the “f8 and be there” maxim once and he said it started a _very_ long conversation at his photography club. 😂

[@fepatton]

@@definingslawek4731 I think it goes way back to early press photographers who needed not to be thinking too much, just being quick. At f8, you’ve got adequate depth of field that focusing in the general area will get you the sharpness you need. However, the main point is “be there (with your camera ready)” or someone else will get the shot!

[@definingslawek4731]

@@fepatton thank you :)

[@glennsak]

Since most images are shared on social media, any camera manufactured in the past 10 years is adequate. Work instead on observing things, look for light, and heck - even an iPhone is a great camera.

[@markshirley01]

Its not just images today - its just as much video

[@paulanderson24]

Even digicams from the early 2000s hold up for such uses and in many cases make better prints than the newest phones

[@nicktasteless360]

yup there's a reason why there's a huge drop in the market for cameras since the golden years. Those cameras simply good enough for the average users. I started of photography with a second hand camera that was around 7 years old and i still can take better pictures than people with their $8000 sony cameras.

[@markshirley01]

@@nicktasteless360 what an amazing ability you have

[@Atyir0Chaoschant]

For a thousands of videos about photography and i dont mean tutorials specificaly, this is one the most valuable lessons to pass. Thank you. I have experienced something when i switched because i was really really unhappy with my old camera, still have it btw. and it is true that there are some setbacks before you and your camera become one again.

[@mattisulanto]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@miscadventurescaughtonvide9408]

There was a whole lot of truth packed into this 10 minute video. I especially enjoyed "99% of youtube watching photographers care more about gear than photography."

[@doncoombez]

As someone who has used 4 different systems I can say without doubt your point is an excellent one! The learning curve in particular takes so much time away from shooting or hampers your shooting. Brilliant video!

[@tonprobe]

Oh, my goodness, that sentence really made my day: "Don't do what I have done, it is stupid." Such statements make you very sympathetic - again and again. By the way. It seems, I'm one of the few regular viewers who really prefers videos about photography itself and not so much about gear. ^^

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks so much.

[@momchilyordanov8190]

In the last 5 years alone, I used Canon (2018), Nikon (2019), Panasonic and Olympus (2020-21), Sony (2021), Canon again (this time mirrorless, 2021-22), and now, in 2022, I purchased my first Fuji. I know EXACTLY what the guy is talking about. In honesty - it is somewhat fun to buy new cameras and lenses, try them out and compare. I realized maybe THAT is my hobby more than actual photography :) But his points are correct. It is expensive (I usually lost about 800-1000 euros for every full switch of camera and 3 or 4 lenses). It's also annoying to have countless conversations with potential clients, especially the ones that want to get something for nothing, or suspect everybody is out there to cheat them. Also, one of the most cumbersome processes is to get used to quirks of all different systems in order to be able to use the gear at its max potential. Things like "Sony menus are really dumb" or "Fuji cameras and their top-plate dials are not for everyone" are very true! And the other valid point in the video is is, that in real world situations, the camera/lens combo or the IQ if your camera are not in top 5 of most important things that "make a photo". The light, the correct moment, the smart framing - that is what make or brake a photo in most of the scenarios. I can show better photos, taken with my toy-like GX80 and its old, small 16MP sensor, than with my high-res 7RIII and a €1000 lens on it. Just because I was lucky (or observant) enough, to press the shutter in the right moment. So, shoot with what you have and save yourself money and frustration.

[@fmphotooffice5513]

Best advise to a new photographer threw me for a loop when I started. At the interview I could tell the interviewer was very impressed with my samples. His advise: Go shoot more- a lot more. Don't waste time being a gear head. What can you do with the gear you have? Do it! In the 21st century you can get fantastic results with just a little kit. What are you shooting? What do you mostly want to be able to achieve? Start with THAT gear and go out and perfect your technique. Go shoot A LOT of photographs. Be tough on yourself. Get BETTER.

[@edmwesten]

Excellent points and I agree entirely. Sometimes a camera body gets to be an old friend and switching can make you wish for the familiarity of the feel of the replaced body to such an extent that photography is less fun. That’s happened to me.

[@thilobraun3440]

Absolutely correct. I still love my Nikon D5200 and Canon D800 and have quite a number of lenses for them. I know how to use them and they feel familiar. Aside from that, I often take my Olympus M5 Mk 3 with me due to size and the smaller lenses and less weight and on holidays a Sony RX10 Mk 4. Does that make me a better photographer? No. And this is what photography should be about. Go out and take the photos you like and which mean something to you. Modern cameras are so highly developed, that they all have huge possibilities and I guess many of us just use a fraction of their capabilities.

[@pedrobartolomei7707]

¡Gracias! Best video in years... Honestly going for gear it's the stupidest way to try improve your craft... Been there and done that too. I'm taking better pictures with my oldest gear just because I'M getting better. It's amazing the bombardment of "you should try this lens" or the "buy this and your pictures will be better" videos that we have. Hope its enought for the ☕ and thank you!

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks for watching and support😀

[@TheOneAft]

Probably one of the best videos about this topic. 👏 In addition, I love the subtle critic of those KZbinrs who do that kind of videos. I, personally, think photography is a never ending learning journey where, no matter the system, we will take any kind photos that are our life's diary.

[@zenonbillings9008]

wow matti, what an great video, I've been following your channel for many years now and your wisdom offered up to the photography community is truly, truly exceptional. thanks so much. zen billings, canada

[@joerg_koeln]

Very well said. Only fools think that they'll do a better job the more expensive their equipment is, but world-class photography is about lights, shadows, composition, timing and often about creative ideas.

[@geogu3images]

Well said! After four camera systems I too came to the realization, that your camera body is just a vessel for a great lens. The image sensor is important but not nearly as important as the lenses that shape the image which lands on that sensor. As for sensors, 24mp is enough for 90% of the images I take (and not crop the crap out of). But I did get a case of GAS this past year and upgraded my camera bodies to land on one 43mp and then a 61mp (both Sony due to the lenses I use). My lenses love the real estate those sensors provide, though some of my friends are still making great images on 6mp digital cameras, and ancient film cameras, with phenomenal lenses. Go figure!

[@sayharris1361]

You are absolutely right, I recently switched from Canon dslr to Sony mirrorless. I’m more than happy with the upgrade. The Sony 200-600mm lens has save my back A lot of pain. I certainly do not miss carrying around my first generation Canon 600mm lens which is a 12 pound beast. But my Canon System will stay in my safe. Selling it would be like throwing out the baby with the bathwater.

[@bronekjelonek3323]

The problem currently is that migration to mirrorless is forced with no option which means also cost of new lenses if want to use native mount (Nikon in my case). Could use adapter but it is not exactly the same + new lenses are simply required to get all benefits of recent technologies... But even a single body is really a cost for me.

[@fionab6654]

I'm in a similar situation. Current camera is old and having issues. Cannon 1000D. Now I'm pondering if I jump ship and who to.

[@Scripticus]

With age comes wisdom. I highly agree. Thank you for those fine words of wisdom!

[@laura_shannon_]

Someone on another video said “If you can’t take decent photos on a cheaper camera (or the camera you currently have) then you won’t be able to take good photos on a newer more expensive camera” expensive gear isn’t always everything. It really annoys me when people say “budget gear” but it’s like 3K and not everyone can afford that sadly 😔 but you don’t always need the expensive gear to be honest

[@WSS_the_OG]

With great photos (composition, lighting), nobody thinks about what gear was used. With bad photos, people suddenly wonder what gear what used. It's strange, and only illustrates Mr. Sulanto's point.

[@adrianmuino3412]

I agree, every day it is more difficult to create reasons to make us buy new camera. Current cameras are so good that IMO can be use for years and years. My 5 cents, invest in glass not in cameras!

[@ronjopp7169]

In general that's true ... most of the time. But for many 'amateur' or even 'enthousiast' photographers things develop differently. I am 66 years old now and started photography when I was 14. In these 52 years lots of things changed, not only in photography, but also in my life. At 14 I didn't have much money, so I got me a Chinon SLR. The one with the thread mount, which was a pain when you wanted to swap lenses. So after a few years I made a little money and I could afford to get a Canon Ftb SLR. I used this camera for years .... until autofocus arrived. I didn't switch immedtiately but after some time I had to switch to the EOS system (new bodies, new lenses). And again used that for years. And then digital cameras arrived on the scene. It took some time again but at a certain point I switched to the digital EOS system (new bodies, some of the lenses). Now, I could have stayed with this system, but unfortunately for me I got older. I like to travel with my photo gear, but lugging around bulky and heavy gear became too much of a burden. So I ditched all the full frame gear and started with MFT which I have been using ever since. Will I switch again? I don't know what life will bring, but so far I have no need to do so. So again, I agree with your point, but there are developments in life that might make switching the most logical thing to do.

[@lexlayabout5757]

I have bought a new camera once every 10 years on average, and they have all been Pentax. Fortunately their basic mount has not changed (Nikon were the same until mirrorless) and I am still using some of my first lenses. I never imagined for a moment that a different brand would make any difference to my photos. System changers have more money than sense.

[@eerolz8758]

I agree with the general reasoning in the video, although I think the reasons gear videos gets watched so much is because people love technology and because people want to know what they're buying before buying new gear, even when upgrading in same system. I agree that these reasons you pointed out are reasons why not change systems, but aren't there also reasons why you should change systems? What if you are disappointed with the company for some reason or another and simply don't want to support them anymore?

[@richardteasdale8014]

Thanks so much for your honesty! That's what I've been saying for years. I started as an amateur photographer back in the 1970s with a basic Fujica ST-701. I learned the old-fashioned way: Shutter speed, aperture, focus. I had a couple of lenses and that was it. Then I switched to a Canon A-1 multi-mode automatic. I found I was mostly shooting manually anyway. Then a few years ago I moved to a Canon digital Rebel. I've got four lenses, three of which are full frame lenses, so I hope to move to a full frame Canon soon. But I still do most of my serious photography in manual modes. All the features are great sometimes, but you don't need them to take great photos. Thanks again!

[@benni1015]

I personally watch tons of gear videos. I almost never buy gear, as i don't really need anything new, but i still just enjoy watching those out of pure interest. It is interesting to see how the manufacturers keep up with each other in terms of quality and what new features their lenses and camera boast. It is easy to grasp(if you already know the issues many camera lenses have) and doesn't really require a lot of attention, which is why it gets way more views than videos about composition. Learning anything requires patience and effort and many hobbyists like me simply don't have that after a day of work.

[@Leptospirosi]

Agreed: I had so many disillusions buying new cameras and hoping to see revolutionary results. Some of the images I like the most were taken on a Canon 450D and a cheap non L lens! I actually sold my "newer cameras" and held some the older ones I like to use, some of which I inherited from my father in law. Dynamic range may be a bit worse, but when I look at the images I took over time, I can't really say the more recent ones were so much better to justify the expense. Watch your pictures people, print them up on a decently sized support: pixel peeping on your screen it's really not the way you should do it

[@GeryRydell]

I had my 450D for about 12 years and switched to a Nikon z6ii now… What can i say, it is like day and night for me.

[@osunaedgar]

There is a HUGE difference between L and Non-L lenses. You should be able to see the difference just by looking through the viewfinder.

[@mikafoxx2717]

@@osunaedgar Depends on the individual lens a prime lens is going to perform a lot better. Even a basic 50 1.8 stopped down past 2.8 is going to beat most zooms costing a lot more..

[@jeni719]

@@osunaedgar The point is that photographers may see the difference, most photographs are appealing due to subject, composition and lighting. That has never changed.

[@osunaedgar]

@@mikafoxx2717 I dont doubt that. My comment was around L vs Non-L glass, not about prime vs zoom lenses.

[@Lordvader330]

Great video. I have been shooting with the 4/3 and M4/3 format since the e-1. Long before the first Sony Alpha. I have never been I a situation where my camera couldn’t capture what I needed. Never. I have amassed a small fortunes worth of 4/3 and M4/3 lenses which I use every day. Along with my old Nikon and OM film lenses. I couldn’t be happier with the new OM-1. It is the perfect system for wildlife. Biggest advantage is the depth of field I get, much better images with a smaller sensor. I love when people say well you can’t crop in on a 20 MP image. I just say have you seen my lens collection?

[@brianthomas6500]

Well said. I have been a Canon user since 1980, never found a good reason to change. I now have several bodies, lenses, flash guns and some studio kit etc. Now I am retired and a little less active, I can see my kit lasting me out.

[@StanNoteboom]

I agree. Sort of. I’m retired and started taking my photography more seriously. I started with M4/3, and that is the core of my work. But since I started collecting vintage lenses I wanted to see what the images would look like on full frame. So I have a Sony A7, Intrigued by Fuji I bought a X-E2s. I’m in agreement with the idea that there hasn’t been a “bad” camera made in 10 years. I agree. I haven’t switched systems so much as expanded my choices. Shooting with vintage lenses has sharpened my skills and shown me how good were the lenses in the 35mm film era were. Additionally, I have a new appreciation for the auto lenses of today. Learning new systems has added to the challenge, but it also exercises my brain.

[@skeletalwreckofman]

I can already tell Im gunna like this guy...what was said in the first one minute and thirty three secondes.....Nailed It

[@doganmk6366]

That’s pretty sums up what I’ve done so far: switching systems in search of “the perfect camera”, which does not exist. Spent soooo much time, reading discussions and articles on “pro photography websites” about this or that camera… The most useful lesson I learnt has been if you have an ordinary lens attached to even the best camera in the world , you get “meh” kind of results… and the good lens is always so expensive. That’s why I don’t have even a single “press quality” photo of a bird in flight (the genre I really enthused about) in my 20000 photos library, because I have never been rich enough nor was wise enough to hold and spend my money on such a lens instead of changing between systems or cameras. Thanks heaps for your very sound advice which made me realise this must be “the enough is enough” point. Please keep advising…

[@glennsak]

I think gear videos are most viewed because people come to KZbin to learn which camera to buy. But you’re right, gear is easier to discuss when one’s talent and skill is lacking.

[@Jagdkomodo]

Over the last decade I switched camerasystems twice. Both times I lost money and once it didn't improve imagequality. Your analysis is very accurate. It makes me value my current gear (Alpha 7 IV) even more! This is were I will stay.

[@thethirdman225]

I changed from Canon crop camera to Sony full frame. I ended up losing a lot of money out of it and I couldn’t do much because at the time I couldn’t afford lenses. The original plan was to adapt my old film lenses but it didn’t really go to plan. Over the years I have gathered new Sony stuff and I’m delighted with it. I carry about half the gear I used to and I doubt there will ever be another urge to switch again.

[@renegrosheintz-laval9146]

I just love that low-key, deadpan, Finnish humour! And you are absolutely right! It's all about gear and not about photos. Tech and consumer mania. After 40 years I now have a dog again. Same thing: 100 million different foods, beds, toys, food bowls, puzzles, electronically guided water dispensers, leashes, clothing, safety boxes and on and on and on. So, in photography you are actually still quite well off with under 10 serious camera brands to choose from. However, looming on the horizon: phone cameras.

[@trevor9934]

I totally agree. I began my photographic career over 40 years ago. Throughout that career I have shot predominantly with one brand. One never buys a camera that is not a specific vintage or piece of art (i.e. Leica special editions), with any idea of getting the money back from the hardware. The value in camera gear comes from using it. The more one uses a system, the more investment one has and the higher the cost of switching a system. When I switched from film to digital, I chose a brand based on the glass, not the actual camera body. That is because lenses hold their value (both economic and operational) for a long time, while bodies change frequently, get upgraded, and lose their value quickly. Those who get into the gear switching treadmill suffer from GAS: the belief that the latest tech will release their latent genius - and that is rubbish. Getting to know a camera's controls is definitely the way to go. Some of my most cherished images are taken with relatively humble gear - I still shoot on occasion with cameras from 2000, to make the point that technique will outlast tech.

[@thethirdman225]

I hadn’t taken a lot of pics for years. I used to be a professional cameraman, working in media but photography was always my first love. Now I’m retired and I’m shooting most days. When I stopped working, I was burnt out and I couldn’t get out of my old habits. But the more I shoot, the more I want to shoot. I think I’ve finally released myself and even _I’m_ impressed with what I’m doing.

[@TheMarkSasuke64]

I'm glad you mentioned the video side of it, and 'unless your gear is missing a feature' in the feature section. I mostly do videography and gear for videographers make massive leaps in a short time. My T6 is good for any photography gig, but lack of 4k, bad low-light, bad auto-focus, standard fps and other features are limiting, which is why jumping to something like an A7III makes sense. It speeds up on-set shooting, makes editing footage hilariously easier with more creative options like LOG color-grading, and there's just so much more you can do. I completely agree that for photography, gear isn't as important to upgrade every couple years.

[@chida259]

A wonderful video that opens the eyes of many gear-crazy photographers. Every photographer should remember that creativity is in the head and not in the camera.

[@M.Montgomery]

I agree with your view on equipment, I only upgrade (within the ecosystem) when the equipment gets significantly lighter. I hike long distances and climb mountains with my equipment. Weight is the most important aspect, I recently upgraded to a new 70-200mm saving almost half a kilo! That is one of the reasons I use only two lenses one prime, one zoom and my phone for all of my photography.

[@WillieBloom]

I consider myself as lucky that I was able to start my high-end camera journey now (summer 2022) with a full-frame mirrorless camera. Just the startup costs for the camera body, accessories, one on-brand and one off-brand lens, and all the other do-dads and other peripheral accessories… Damn! I mean, damn! Nah, I’m not gonna for a long, long time. I’m committed to the decision I made.

[@bubu-px7gb]

这大实话是我看过的最好的视频之一。 Straightforward and true ， the best video about camera gears I have ever seen.

[@adrianmcnally6006]

Only thing I'd disagree with is the cost, if you buy second hand from the begining and buy well, it's possible to change system without cost but it can be a hassle if you don't like the buy / sell process

[@yannisvaroufakis9395]

Best advice I’ve heard from any KZbin photographer! Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way, after trading in my beloved Canon 5D Mk III for a Fuji camera, took a big hit on the sale, then sold the Fuji to go back to Canon. I now have an R6 with RF lenses that I will keep forever. While it’s images are stunning, they are not a night and day difference from the 5DIII.

[@CheffBryan]

The only reason I would ever consider buying a second camera body at all is because of lenses I love, just as you said. I love bokeh and macro photography, so funny enough all of the fancy functions, including autofocus, are unusable entirely with my beloved Helios and stack of macro tubes. Until a body will natively work with old lenses without adapters, it's best to keep shooting!

[@aikcreationsmultimedia1489]

Thank you! It makes no sense. The best is the Knowledge and the crafting of the image crafted by the photographer!. Stay with your camera and learn the craft of making good picture.

[@uvp5000]

Call it a lack of motivation, but changing systems never appealed to me. I currently enjoy Canon and Fujifilm. I don't let gear get in the way of enjoying photography (my motivational deficiencies do a great job of that). I still use 20-year-old gear (and sometimes, older than that) and enjoy the process when I am indulging my pleasure in photography. Very few people will ask about your gear when viewing one of your better photographs. That said, I do look forward to purchasing more advanced gear without saying goodbye to the current systems or older gear.

[@pergustavsson2424]

Kiitos, Matti! A word of sanity! Myself, I have gone from Leica M2 and Nikon F2 (early 1970s) through Canon digital cameras to, when I pensioned myself off from news photography, m4/3. I currently use Lumix Gx9 and G9 and am still trying to collect a perfect collection of lenses. And I love every minute of it! Cheers, Per

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks, Per!

[@phillipmaguire4671]

I absolutley agree. At the end of the day, it is about story telling, be it via photography or videography. Unless you have endless money to waste, most normal people do not have the money or time to be changing camera systems every other year.

[@obscur_yoann]

That's why I use L mount. I can switch between Sigma/Leica/Panasonic without really switching ! 🤣😎 Other than that, I agree completely (I also made too many switches over the years) ! Except you are a pro and need a very specific feature/lens/something that your current system don't have, there are no reasons to switch... Adding a second kind of system though... that can be nice, for different style of shooting. But it's not a necessity.

[@ibfideliusadeltand1]

ABSOLUTELY CORRECT! "The best camera is the one, You are carrying!"

[@meibing4912]

Can agree - however, moving from Canon DSLR to Canon mirrorless really brought some advantages and most leases could be reused.

[@sbai4319]

Couldn’t agree more. So many people miss this point. I use Canon EF for Film and Digital.

[@RobShootPhotos]

The reasons why I won't be switching from Olympus/OM System. Dynamic range, noise and MP will and has improved over the years. OM-1 has greatly improved with focus and focus points. Also I use in camera focus stacking and Pro-Capture mode all the time and there is yet a camera brand that has as robust settings as Olympus with similar features. One thing that won't change is DoF to the equivalent focal length. I have zero problem with the"lack" of shallow DoF but I'm Marco photography, it's actually an advantage. I follow many macro photographers who have actually switched to Olympus/OM-SYSTEM for that reason.

[@WilsonWongWilzWorkz]

As a camera/tech reviewer I have to agree with sulanto. All the cameras can perform for vast majority of users. The ones who can be demanding are the action/wildlife/events photographers that runs and guns then their work require to have the best AF system. But for most consumers, most AF can do the job. The look of jpegs can be solved by shooting in RAW and do tweaks to the colour/white balance. Most modern lenses can focus well and shoot sharp. If the photos are not where one wants it to be, then the chance that the one behind the camera has to take the blame.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks for sharing your opinion and good to hear we both agree on this😀

[@glendevitt3945]

I shot several different cameras back in my film days, (I am now 67 years old), but once I made the switch to digital, I only shot and upgraded thru Canon cameras. That was until abut 4-1/2 years ago. I "retired" my Canon 1D Mark IV and switched to Sony. The difference between the out-dated Canon body and the Sony a7r3 was dramatic, and made the change a good decision for me. The system switch learning curve was a little frustrating, but went fast. I purchased the Sony G-Master 70-200mm f/2.8 along with my new full-frame, mirrorless body, but used a Sigma MC-11 adapter for my other Canon lenses. I have since replaced my 24-70mm f/2.8 Canon glass with a Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 and use my adapter for my 12-24mm wide and my 50mm f/1.4 prime with no problem. I don't switch systems, or purchase tons of glass for many of the reasons you make in this video. Sound advice.

[@SergiiStarodubtsev]

The best video I ever seen so far. Straight to the point (s). Appreciated it.

[@MoltenHelium]

I'd love to hear your take on the quick changeover to mirrorless systems, and if it makes much of a difference to the end user, and why it happened.

[@chris5706]

Ironically I clicked on your video because it was about gear. But it makes so much sense. And I am also guilty of watching too many gear videos and taking too few pictures 🤫 So I am off to take more pictures but I am now interested in seeing your other videos.

[@samting1852]

When I started professional wedding photography back in 1974, we used Rolleiflex twin lens 120mm square cameras. Absolutely nothing automatic. For light (flash photography) we used a Honeywell single output flash powered by a 500w Eveready battery, which allowed about a five second recycle time. We would shoot six roles of 220 VPS Kodak 24 exposure films, typically getting a 144 images per wedding. We had to be able to sell between 120 and 130 images of each wedding, Film ISO (ASA) was 100. To get proper exposures there was a constant balance between distance from the subject, fill-flash, and exposure, which was attained by continuous of adjustments of shutter speed, aperture settings, and "available" light. There was never any talk of "switching" systems. If you couldn't produce great "negs" with the camera, you were relegated to making black and white prints in the studio lab. That's why today, I am happy with my Nikon D750 and its array of lenses.

[@lexlayabout5757]

My father was a part time pro doing weddings and portraits with a Rollei. He bought it because he thought it was the best and after that he gave it no more thought. There was no technical arms race back then, a camera was assumed to last a lifetime.

[@hansn.433]

It is also a lot easier to create new content for gear. U can always recycle the same Videoidea, aka Testvideos for every new piece of gear and nobody will accuse u of recycling content. And as viewer u always feel like if u just throw enough money at ur bad pictures, they suddenly turn out great. I often feel like that too, but started throwing money at travels to amazing landscapes or helpful tools, like flashes and just started experimenting. That truly helped my photography

[@AHOBOINTEXAS]

My single favorite picture was taken with a Sony a6500, a 7 year old system, and boy lemme tell you, it was awesome 🥹 I loved that camera. When people talk about photography I usually like the people that have their unique style, some people take photos and yea they're good, but their style isnt original or too bland. Good photos but unoriginal. My favorite pics are always at night. It makes you work for your money

[@richardpcrowe]

I switched from Canon film to Canon digital. Then, I remained with Canon digital for about 15-years. I made my final switch to Sony. As a pet photographer I wanted animal eye AF. I also like the smaller size and weight of the Sony A6xxx series of cameras. As an example, my Sony A6600 and 70-350mm lens weighs just a fraction of the weight of my Canon crop sensor cameras and 100-400 mm lens. I still have not become as proficient with the Sony as I was with the Canon but, I am learning. As far as animal (and human) eye AF - this is the best thing since sliced bread!

[@lumixographer2185]

"Go out and get some awesome pictures!" The best cure for GAS! My upgrade path is to get better lenses and take advantage of new photo processing software rather than jumping to a new system. Keep reminding us that photography is to be enjoyed!👍

[@MrMarin051]

This is so true. Recently upgraded my gear and stayed on same system because of the same reasons. Nikon D200 to Z5. Even there is 15 years in technology develoment between those two cameras, difference in image quality under most conditions when viewing from normal viewing distance (not pixel peeping) is not as much as I was expecting. I don't have regrets but yeah. Better gear will not make you better photographer that's for sure.

[@GodfreyMann]

Upgrading from M4/3rds to full frame was the best thing I ever did…the results are far better: I can print large, have more crop-ability, and have access to shorter DOF lenses.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks.

[@mack.attack]

isn't size of prints and crop-ability a function of resolution, not sensor size? all else being equal, the print size you can make from a 24MP full-frame and 24MP apsc are the same, just the apsc will be 1.5x focal length?

[@mattisulanto]

@@mack.attack Yes, but only regarding sensor resolution or pixel count.

[@GodfreyMann]

@@mack.attack yes but the maximum density of pixels is fixed for a given generation of chip technology, which means larger sensors will always have higher resolution for a given generation. Right now the highest resolution MFT sensors are only around 33MP while you can find 61MP on full frame, which makes sense given FF is roughly twice the area of MFT. There’s also better lowlight performance because full frame systems have lenses with wide apertures than MFT and therefore let in more light. This isn’t a benefit of sensor size but rather a choice by MFT manufactures to not release as fast glass.

[@dance2jam]

You are absolutely correct on most of the premises you lay out in just the first two minutes. I know this video isn't for me, but as a wildlife photographer who used Nikon bodies and glass, I was seriously considering changing over to Canon or Sony several years ago. The state of affairs with Nikon and the superb AF that other brands in their mirrorless systems offered was enough to have me seriously considering the change. The cost of changing Nikon glass out kept me waiting a little longer. The move could have been justified given the state of affairs at that moment in time. I was a DSLR user and the writing was on the wall for several years prior to that. Then, Nikon released the Z9 - which was ground breaking for its mirrorless lineup and for me. I could now: 1. Continue to use my telephoto, and other f-mount glass, with the FTZii adapter. 2. No black out. 3. Significantly improved AF/AE with improved AI (people/animal eye detect - when appropriate). 4. Silent shooting. 5. Significantly higher frame rates. 6. Pre-capture/post-capture (occasionally used and special). 7. No shutter with only occasional rolling shutter or banding. 8. Sensor shield. 9. Significantly improved video for those that will use it. 10. Bright EVF. 11. Longer battery life. 12. Significant button customization. 13. (and the one that caught my former Nikon buds who jumped to Sony A1) - innovative lenses (400mm f/4.5, 800mm f/6.3, 400mm f/2.8 with built in TC, 600mm f/4 with built in TC - not released). Does any of this make us better photographers? Of course, gear has something to do with it in the right hands and knowing how to maximize the gains in technology. Switching, for switching sake, is insanity. The cost of switching is real. Am I happy I stayed with Nikon. Certainly, but I'm happier yet when I go out to shoot, because the Z9 has made the act of taking photos that much more enjoyable, and it's hard to put a price on that. As Columbo would have said: "Just one more thing". Perhaps you could make a video on why you switched so many times between systems - i.e. what was your rationale? We could learn from that as well! Thanks for sharing.

[@tor2919]

A good case can be made for switching from a DSLR system to some kind of mirrorless system due to more demand on hybrid video/photo production and delivery. Just as a good case could be made switching from using film to digital. Not necessarily about the quality of the work, but the speed of delivery and workflow. Otherwise I agree, find a camera and lenses you love to hold and use. Then make pics

[@anton0000001]

I love your honesty! Keep up the good work

[@Victaaar]

Mr Sulanto, i am a canon reflex photographer, i work with a apsc and full frame and I Love astrophoto and timelapse. The thing is that i need a Panasonic G95 because it has liive view composite and Canon doesn't have it. The price for this camera now is reasonable... I love my reflex but sometimes micro 4/3 feels it's enough for me and with this video i can confirm that youtubers suck too much to the brands...Except some honest people! Thanks for your video.

[@mattisulanto]

Thank you.

[@julioamaral4391]

Great video! Thanks for inviting us to think about it! I use Canon FF DSLR system. Now they come with Mirrorless new autofocus system - almost a thousand focus points, following the animals' eyes... It seems my 5D Mk4 is very old and bad stuff... It's indeed a sturdy an precise pro body... A jewelry piece... Thanks, Greetings from South Brazil!

[@ammadoux]

agree 100%. after using Olympus many modals, lumix gx9, Nikon D810, Nikon Z50, fujifilm ex-3. my shots are the same, but to be honest, the only feature that i give priority is no dust on the sensor, which i got only in Olympus and lumix. this is so important to me as i live in dusty Jeddah, and have frequent visits to the deserts. so for me long live m4/3's.

[@peterfriend2919]

Lovely video, great common sense. To quote Ansel Adams :" The most important piece of camera equipment is the six inches behind the view finder".

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks. Ansel said some wise words.

[@andresdiaz2578]

I recently bought a Nikon D810 as a way to use all my vintage Nikon lenses I have acquired over the years. and I have loved using this camera ever since. and I'm not switching from the F mount system anytime soon even though some might say the D810 is outdated. I still think it's a wonderful camera and a bargain buy! Unfortunately, I hate how some camera manufacturers are changing their lens mount systems and abandoning older ones for their newer lens mount systems for their mirrorless cameras. such as Nikon. Which gave up on their F mount system to the Z mount system. I also don't like how these manufactures are saying their new lens mount system is "Better" and forcing people to buy into their new lens system causing them to spend more money than they should instead of focusing on creating inspirational and creative photo works for future generations to enjoy. I personally think the best camera and lens is the one you have right now and it's better than having nothing to take pictures with. Unfortunately, this kind of trend will not end anytime soon as this is the nature of business. But I do hope most photographers see past this and continue to create their photo works.

[@lexlayabout5757]

I use Pentax, but would use Nikon if I did not. Pentax and Nikon have been faithful to their lens mounts, unlike Canon who changed theirs even during the film era. My K-1 uses the same sensor as the D810 (made by Sony I understand :-( ). It is almost inevitable that a maker will change mounts when going to mirrorless or they don't get some of its benefits. Pentax have made it clear they are sticking with pentaprisms as a niche market.

[@Dragonblaster1]

I bought a Sony A7R II when my old Canon EOS 650 died. The beauty is that I can use all my EF glass with it through a Metabones adaptor.

[@DOGMAMOM]

I've been using Nikon since 1983. I never switched systems for the reasons you give - cost, familiarity and I'm happy with the features. I still have my original FE2 film camera and added various digitals to my gear, but I can interchange most of the lenses. That said, I have collected a LOT of crazy vintage film cameras just for fun, mostly medium format film, because I couldn't afford them back when they were new. They were being sold for pennies to a pound after digital came out! Glad I snapped some up, with their gorgeous glass!

[@GFXYORROB]

I still have my Pentax ME-F from 1982 .....absolutely LOVE IT!

[@robi4387]

I sold my F and two Nikkormats, all the primes and got good money I thought. I stuck with Nikon though and lost money on D70, D100, I wore out my D700 and would have had another but by then the D750 was good value. I crested that learning curve quickly and shoot 50-500 a day depending on the job. People say nice camera but to me it is just a tool like a builder's hammer or a writer's keyboard. One lens does 98% of the work and no one says nice lens, but to me it is invaluable.

[@BrendanMacWade]

I went from DSLR to MFT to Canon M. And whike Fujifilm X looks wonderful, I have made peace with where I am now. I am old. I haven't yet mastered my two M cameras. I am sticking with my system and I will take better photos. The gear acquisition days are over.

[@samwang5831]

Frankly most of my pics have been done with my cell phone in recent years. My camera system is now used almost exclusively for nature photography, and for once or twice a year, weddings of friends and relatives. The camera system pie is shrinking and the cannibalization is not going to stop anytime soon. I ditched my FF and APSC for M43 a couple of years ago because of portability, the loss in IQ is less than I thought. I have ended up taking more pictures as I go on my treks. My 2 cents is that no system can do everything. Find the best compromise and try to make it work in different situations. There is a good chance that the system that you have is already good enough.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks.

[@garybrown9719]

Well stated

[@vantagepointphotography]

This is the best video made about photography in the last 200 years. Even when the actual content of the video mention brands, equipment, settings and money 90% more than the word photography, It is photography the actual main topic here. Anything I could comment about this video is not going to sound better than the actual content of the video. Well said word by word.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks for those compliments😀

[@steveworthington930]

Good points Matti, you must have spent a fortune. I was a Canon man back in film day,s, now Olympus, mainly for weight and size, plus affordability. Still learning about my OMD EM1 Mk2, live composite is a genious level feature unique to OLY.

[@megamediker]

I could not agree more!! In the end, you have to use your system seemlessly and that's it. When I started out, I bought a Mamiya 645 and owned a 80 mm lens. That was it and it was great. Cameras are so much more complicated in these days. They have many features to avoid mistakes. Well at the end a Hasselblad C 500 was a surpreme camera, but very unforgiving. The smallest mistake and the pic was gone. That camera you had to know very well. Plus, the pic needed to be in your head, before pushing the button, else everything became very expensive. However it was always the way to learn properly.

[@jeffdrew625]

Good points! Wise advice! Weighing “cost” can be complicated, especially when investing in learning new systems. Sadly, one’s time is irreplaceable…

[@robertmyles8558]

You are so so right having a expensive piece of gear won't make you a top pro photographer I learn its the photographer and his or her no how that makes an image stands out thanks for that wonderful advice

[@potatofuryy]

You cannot stop me! In all seriousness though, I’m still using my d3300 and I still love it after all these years. Unfortunately it lacks a lot of features that I think would help me immensely so I will be switching camera systems soon™️. The primary ones are the improvement in sensor technology and low-light performance, far superior AF and AF-tracking, 4k video, and manual whitebalance. Easier access to wide fields of view on full frame is also a plus.

[@marknicoll5298]

Same. The D3300 struggles in low light and I'd like something that can use a higher ISO without too much noise.

[@nicke.3536]

Agree with every word. I still use Nikon D3s, 10 years old camera. More, than enough for PRO WORK. All my Pro photographers still have their 8-10 years old cameras and well paid today with their cameras.

[@bdcooper5855]

LOVE your video! Every camera club or class I've ever been in or taken, most of the people were more into their equipment and always thought they could take "better" pictures only if they had more equipment.

[@NizarNoor]

I owned APS-C (Canon EF) between 2009-2019. Upgraded to full frame (Canon RF) in 2019. Not planning on charging any time soon.

[@davebellamy4867]

Also, if you have any film camera lenses from 35mm cameras, it's great to get a decent lens adapter to fit them on your MFT camera. It saves z lot of mobey and it gives extended use to your old, legacy lenses. You may find that certain focal lengths you don't ever use, so you can decide not to buy new lenses of that type. Also using some of the old manual focus lenses, you may find you really need autofocus, so it points you to what new lenses to buy without wasting a lot of money.

[@virtualworldsbyloff]

I teach Photography and would like to congratulate you for upgrading the most important tool in Photography - People's Brain

[@njrivetelite]

Here is my argument for changing systems. I am invested decently deep into Canon. I own an R5 & R6 along with my old 5DMKII. I now own mostly RF glass & highly satisfied with them. Why am I considering switching to Sony? Do I feel Sony is better overall? Not really to a point to make me switch. So why am I still considering it? It's more because I'm annoyed with #Canon at the company level. I very much would like 3rd party lens support from Sigma & Tamron. But Canon refuses to open up their RF mount to them plus they're going to add another price increase to their already very expensive glass. This really annoys me. Some ppl say, just buy the Sigma EF glass & adapt it.. but I don't want that, I want to natively mount my lenses. It adds length & weight to the system. I shoot video often and I really want a great Hybrid system. Canon does an ok job with it and I absolutely love my R5. But... At the moment, Canon's L primes are a bit out of budget. I could definitely make use of a few Sigma Primes. I am just that frustrated with Canon that I've made some considerations towards Sony. And yes, I'd lose some money by selling off my Canon Gear. It's just the point of getting sick of the company not giving me what I want as a customer and deciding that maybe my money should go towards a company that does.

[@brugj03]

I know wht you feel, it`s like canon is always cheating you`re just never satisfied.

[@njrivetelite]

@@brugj03 it's really irking

[@Eyeofdajjal]

Switching from Canon to Nikon changed everything for me. Noise, shadow detail and dynamics were the most dramatic improvements. I still use my canon gear where applicable, it has had its good sides. So, sometimes, it does make sense to switch! I’ve been using the same studio flashes for all my life though. I still run some from the 80ies, the most modern and expensive one actually turned out to be most unreliable, its flexibility aside. My analog Olympus gear is still from the 80ies, too, I only switched to digital in 2005. I really thought long and hard about the switch to Nikon. Make it count!

[@danev1969]

Great advice. Probably more than 99% of every image I have taken (and care about) in the last 10 years could have been taken with any other manufacturer's camera with a similar lens lineup. I suspect we tend to blame gear rather than our own skills.

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks. It's easier to blame the darn camera than yourself😀