PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR ADVICE | My honest thoughts in 2020

[@loresign4933]

That’s a great statement of honesty for this channel and whatever will come in the near future. No sponsorship, no commercial influences trough video content. Going upstream in comparison to majority of photo channels out there.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you so much. Yes, too many people all saying the same thing on KZbin. I feel like it's a race to the bottom. I took all that time off the platform and really cleared my head. In doing so, it was clear to me how I wanted to setup myself for the future. Yes, I need to make money but I want to do it with a small group of people on a dedicated learning platform. Not from massive "free" content to sell things I know they don't need etc.

[@kenhuang3820]

Your advice is totally spot on and watch few of your videos, I just enjoy your work flow so amazing. I think many people make mistakes at some point their photography journey, I'm a beginner and I have over spend on lenses and lucky I got friend pull me back to reality which I am grateful for. Those who have money to spend on gear let them be 🤣 as Tony and Chelsea, Chelsea she said if wasn't for those people who spend on gear camera company would struggle to make good revenue to continue to innovate technology for rest of us I am very pleased that my friend recommended your video to me, keep up the awesome work and stay safe in this unpredictable COVID environment and wish you all the best and every success in the coming year

[@travisharrisphotography]

This is one of the nicest comments I have gotten in a long time. I really, appreciate what you said. You are totally right. You have an excellent point about others who have the money to spend, that keep the camera companies moving forward. I never thought about that. This is very true. Thank you so much! I am glad that you can "see" through all the "gimmick" tho, and have made smart choices for the future :-)

[@kenhuang3820]

@@travisharrisphotography I have camera that I love and hate so much which is Canon 90D it provides me soft focus issue (I'm live view it works) I use faster Shutter speed have lenses that has stablizisation, even got Canon to check the camera no issue plus got lens calibrated by Sigma (most my lens is Sigma only couple canon lens), couple days ago I went I to camera store try out Canon 24-70 F4 IS L lens it work like a dream and I assume maybe Canon want user to spend on L version of glass (would be more expensive if I change my sigma art and sports lens to Canon L version). Going to trade this in for EOS R I've always wanted ful frame camera for its lower light capabilities and image quality. Yes I had bad experience with APSC in general due to get more noise for over ISO 800, lesson I learnt don't simply watch KZbin and believe everything other says go and rent the gear you want to buy for a week and see if I like it and how I am going to use it when I own it Camera and lens is just a tool to help us bring our creativity alive if we can't bring out creativity to reality, first I should ask myself have I exhausted all method I can to find solutions (research online, or KZbin or pay for a class and learn) instead thinking extra gear would help. Like if I have lens that is f4 not f1.4 in low light if I also don't have great flash I can mount on camera and I not doing any pay photo shoot I can just use torch or if I am doing pay shoot do less important photo shoot and find cheapest flash until I earn enough for decent flash like what you mentioned Godox (before spending ensure I have secured at least 3-4 time flash price worth of work). I am sharing in hoping other beginner don't make similar mistake like me don't become a GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndromes) unless you do have plenty spare money, start enjoying photography 😊

[@kenhuang3820]

@@travisharrisphotography o o jo o jjjjjeeet Ueeee to

[@tappersreviews4677]

Amazing honesty and superb advice. I hope 2021 can be a much, much better year for everyone.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you so much! I agree, much looking forward to 2021!

[@tphillips63]

Very informative, love your style and videos and have been a subscriber. I do value your opinions and this is a huge benefit to people that want great lights but do not want to stay in the manufacturer flash world.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks so much! Yeah, I just feel like everyone today is too obsessed with "gear", and most people (myself included) have all been lead to think that, this is what you really need. But, after time and with more experience I have really learned that this is not the case at all. Its so much more about understanding what you are doing, and creative ideas. The gear just does not matter in most situations. So, I want to inspire people to SAVE MONEY! because at the end of the day, this is what really makes or breaks many of our goals with photography.

[@WashDCWill]

I needed this video today! Thanks, Travis.

[@PhilbertWilliams]

Happy to see a video from you again. You're totally right. Needs vs Wants. As I get deeper in this business, I just see the importance of having gear that does the job and not about having the latest or newest tech. At the end of the day your priority is the job and as long as you have a tool that can help you do the job well, it won't make sense spending money on something that won't make a significant difference in the end result.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks so much! Yeah, this is 100% the right way to think. So glad some other people understand!

[@BomboraSurfShop]

Great video, I think it will help a lot of new photographers who think they need every piece of new kit. I'm also a working photographer and I don't buy any kit unless I absolutely need it. I also use the EOS R with my EF lens and the lights I like to use are Neewer, they are made by Godox but cost a little less, I've been using them for years and they work great. Nice to see you back, keep positive and stay safe.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Yes! This is exactly it Gareth! Good for you my man. It's great to hear this mindset from others.!

[@nexuses1]

I remember that Profoto video, but still went for the Godox AD400s because of the mounts/adapters. Even my neighbour, who swore by Profoto and used to shoot Profoto, got himself a AD600.

[@CarlosTeixeiraDF]

Thank you for your esplanade on a subject that many like me would like to be productive and economical, as I set up my lighting arsenal only with Godox 600pro and 300pro where I am loving the result even though I have few opportunities in this pandemic, and here I would like to leave my respect to yours person because the other day i asked you about a monopod in one of your videos and promptly answered me with an answer. I love your videos and I'm learning a lot, your way of working is just fantastic ... thanks....I from Brazil guy

[@travisharrisphotography]

Hey my man! wow, thanks so much for this comment. I am truly honored. I really love being in a position to help others and I am glad that you have enjoyed some of my videos. You are smart to go with Godox. Very nice gear and you can do anything you want with it. I know what you mean about not much opportunity now with the pandemic. Not the best time to be going, and doing shoots. Funny enough, I just did a shoot today (inside my small apartment) of my 7yr old son. lol. It's been months since I last took any photos. I really want to start going out and shooting more, and aim for a weekly BTS video on my channel. I think that would be really cool. Then, in the meantime I maybe can do some more edit videos etc.. So, I will see what happens next! Thanks so much again, stay safe and good luck!

[@jwong7316]

would be one of your first patreon subscribers. I'm so happy to hear such honest, refreshing advice. I'm a fan.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you so much! That would be awesome! It's coming!

[@danbrowning2418]

Outstanding presentation, Travis. I wish you the best in the coming second wave of the pandemic.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you Dan! Yeah, another wedding just cancelled. Man, this is a nightmare. :-) Just going to focus on KZbin, and then build up a site where I can teach people photography etc.. that's my new focus. Weddings are just not it right now, :-(

[@JohnSmith-nk9fd]

Great! You tell the truth that really help many people!🙏👍

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks man! Yeah, I think its important to really just tell people the truth. Wayyyyyy too many "review" people out there, making everyone feel like they NEED the latest and greatest kit. Nothing is further from the truth. I am so passionate about proper education with photography and one of the most important things is to not over spend on things that truly won't matter in the long run. :-)

[@yanschwartzman9088]

Great review Travis, love everything you said. I am a full time wedding photographer, during pandemic I sold most of my lenses, just kept 24-105, my favorite sigma 135 f1.8 and 100 macro. I’ve used these 3 lenses only on my last wedding and it was more than enough. Thank you for wisdom words, I also love my godox Ad200 non pro, use it all the time. Can’t wait to see your next video

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks for sharing Yan! I feel ya man.. this Covid-19 has been a real nightmare. Nothing wrong with selling some stuff, I have been selling a ton of things I dont "need" lately.. and I bet my Profoto gear will be up next.. lol. Let's hope for the best!

[@peterklopperphotography1150]

Thanks for the sensible advice Travis! I always ask myself if I’m working for the gear or if it’s working for me. Great video to help the new guys and gals get inoculated from amassing unnecessary gear! Way to go 🙌

[@travisharrisphotography]

My man Peter! Love you bro. Your a smart man! Doing well too I see. Keep up all that great work!

[@peterklopperphotography1150]

Travis Harris Photography Thanks man, I’m finding the love again!! 💫📸

[@TallTreesClub]

Thank you Travis. I viewed you in 2018, leading me to confidence in the EOS R. I browsed your content today to see if you bought the EOS R5, and your review is somewhat coincidental. My main income is horticulture. I have cash for the R5. But I asked myself what's most important, and I realized it's glass. And that my EOS R and 5DS still work great. A recent spontaneous wedding confirmed it. So I sold about 7 lenses I used least or wanted to upgrade, including the EF 85mm 1.2. And invested in the RF 85mm 1.2 prime. I see an R5 over the horizon. But a month ago I told myself .. "damn, $4000 is a lot of money for a body you don't need right now Mario" .. "sit on it and take time" .. Greetings and best wishes from Oregon !!!

[@travisharrisphotography]

Hey Mario! Thanks for the comment and support! I appreciate it! Yeah, I really, really think most people need to start to think smarter with money in general. This "need" and "want" for the latest and greatest needs to come to end, or we as a society are going to keep getting more and more into debt. It takes a real step back to see.. the game. All of this is a game. It's almost like a "matrix". We are so programmed to think "upgrade". It starts with our phones and computers. Then, we say "well we need to upgrade". The lease on the car is coming due.. "gotta upgrade". Gee. I have had this camera for 3 years.. "Time to upgrade". FUCK! lol. Enough! Here I am.. as professional as you can possibly get, and all my glass is 10 years old and my camera body went from a $7K 1DX to the EOS R and still could not be any happier. The images I take are the same, as they were with the 1DX. They are the same as they were with the old 5D2. Yes, there are some nice advancements and I def. take advantage of that. But, to keep upgrading when new shit is released.. no way. I see this everywhere and its sad. People need to re-learn the value of money and think long term. They need to get back to the basics of photography and really understand tips, tricks, lighting, and how to grow the business. :-)

[@ChrisBundy17]

I like it! Keep up the great work educating. Monochrome Memoirs channel has a similar concept. Might be worth looking at for a collaboration. I definitely wish I had seen more videos like these when I jumped in CC GAS(gear acquisition syndrome). For the handful of weddings I do a year, I should have a lot less gear. Lots of points on the Profoto vs Godox debate. I throw a request out for tackling midday formals with Godox gear AD200 or less. I think there would be a solid interest since that is one of the most demanding scenarios that most will face.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks Chris! Yes, I too wish I had a time machine, lol. SO much spent.. and looking back, it really was not all needed. We start off, are excited and use our good credit to then, bury ourselves into debt over GAS. I just got myself totally debt free, and its an incredible feeling. NEVER again!

[@kenlewphoto]

Hi Travis, I totally understand where you’re coming from now. You’re right, it’s not a good idea to buy expensive gear especially right now. It’s not going to make you better or look better. I think I would be more impressed with someone shooting with a desk lamp and having amazing results. I really appreciate you taking the time to reply to my other posts on your other videos and also sharing your opinions on this matter and in any photo related manner. I think if I were to buy an expensive system right now, it would be a huge mistake cuz you’re right, it’s like buying two lights and a new and really fancy camera body. I’ll see if I can find you on Instagram! I didn’t know you had one. Thanks again!

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks Ken! Yeah, this is the smart move for sure. I understand why we all (myself included) want the best of everything, and how we all justify it at the end of the day. We need to break away from this habbit and think about things in terms of business, and return. A $4K+ lighting system with a $400 remote is simply not going to be a good return back vs. a System that cost $1500 and has a $89 remote that will do the *exact* same thing in terms of outcome. So, many people pay rediculious amounts of money for a name, or to think they are apart of the "pros" out there and this is getting to be so silly. I can't bare to see it anymore and want people who come in contact with me to have a positive experience and learn from my mistakes.

[@russelbay444]

Hey, Travis. Great video. Don't know much about photo equipment, but I use godox lights for a video production and it works just fine for me. P. S. When is the next tennis session?))

[@travisharrisphotography]

hahah Hey man!! wow, nice to see you here! Totally! I know, I miss Tennis with you! Been scared again with the increase in cases. Florida is really not doing well with this mess. We have become the new NYC! Once things start to settle back down.. I for SURE am down to play!!!

[@deltadave44]

if I were going to get into Godox gear (which I'm not)...I'd go with the "Flashpoint" version...better CS, for sure...or Cheetah stand...they actually do repairs on Godox stuff and they're pretty resonable

[@travisharrisphotography]

Very good tip. Thank you! When the time comes I will definitely look into that!

[@onlysublime]

I had roughly $9K in camera gear stolen from my car (no, it wasn't out in the open and the camera bag doesn't scream camera bag), including my EOS R. I loved that gear. I've been borrowing my friends' equipment including the Sony A7R3. While the images were fantastic from the Sony (including the incredible resolution), the shooting experience was at times frustrating with that camera including awful buffering. That said, I can't wait to pick up the new Canon R5. I guess I'm in your second category. However, I don't jump from new tech to new tech. I usually keep my gear for a very long time. If I didn't lose my EOS R, I would still be shooting with it. I don't buy a lot of lighting for the fact that I don't have assistants to help me. I get creative when it comes to lighting. Hope everything is going well for you. Interested in your "shift"

[@travisharrisphotography]

Right on man! Dude, so so sorry to hear about the gear getting stolen. That sucks, no matter who you are. Damn. Yeah, I feel what your saying about the EOS R and wanting the new R5. If my camera was stolen, and I had to replace it right now.. I maybe tempted to do the same. Just for the second card slot for weddings. Yeah, lighting without assistants is annoying too. But, lately (well, months before this mess) I was doing some shoots alone, I used my backpack with gear as a sand bag for the light, and used big stand. Not too bad.. but, not perfect lol. Also, made me think about a $1600 light without a person holding it lol.

[@Winedrops]

so far the ratio is good 60 Likes vs 2 Dislikes ...letting the joke aside very on point video...the bandage must be ripped off in one continues move ... i use Godox and i`m happy with it... The coronavirus stopped a lots of projects but hopefully we will get work soon... keep up the good work Tiger!!!

[@travisharrisphotography]

haha, I really don't care what anyone thinks. I have been through too much crap, and am too strong. Yes, Godox is a great option. I am excited to see what else they maybe working on in the future. :-)

[@T-Slider]

Very cool. Very solid advise!

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you!

[@justk9775]

I think you are under estimating yourself being a certified pro photographer vs a KZbinr. I haven't seen one photographer on KZbin that's on your level. Inbrace KZbin TV network Travis. Reviews,Gear talk,BTS outings. Btw laugh a little... Losing up have fun. ✌️

[@travisharrisphotography]

Lol, thanks so much. That means a lot!

[@onlysublime]

@@travisharrisphotography yes, your photography is fantastic. something to aspire to

[@travisharrisphotography]

@@onlysublime Thanks so much!

[@richardl3809]

Agree with you, thanks for sharing

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you Richard!

[@digito2300]

Great advice Travis! I think there should be another category for people like me. I work for a big corporation so buying great gear that works is not a problem- its all expensed anyway. lol

[@travisharrisphotography]

LOL, well now.. THAT'S how to roll!! :-)

[@abdellopez7630]

Good advice and hello from Puerto Rico

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thank you! I was there last March for a wedding! Love PR. I also visited my friends from Fstoppers. Their place is amazing!

[@camilodasilva5111]

Thanks for the video. 👍❤️✌️

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks for watching!

[@shadyninja1]

Someone came to my place of work with a canon 90D to complain that it took dark pictures and I asked them what mode they shot it. It turns out that they bought it online and were shooting in auto.

[@brandon-jn8hy]

Great video !

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks Brandon!

[@lorraine6185]

What do you recommend for flexible led lights?

[@travisharrisphotography]

Hey Lorraine! Thanks for the comment. For LED lights, it largely depends on the type of work you want to do, and / or how versatile you want them to be (i.e. a "static" setup for videos.. or something that you can travel with, "run & gun" etc). So, tell me about your use.. and I can try and point you in the right direction :-)

[@lorraine6185]

Hey Travis, mainly looking for portraits/ headshots. Portability & lightweight is important. Looking for a 3 or 4 panel setup. A nice soft look.

[@lorraine6185]

Also, I wanted to try the Godoy version. But, can’t seem to find them. Thanks

[@travisharrisphotography]

@@lorraine6185 Ah! Yes, for that I am not totally sure. I mainly just use smaller LED's for video work etc. I do have some 1x1 LED panels for bigger projects, but I would not want to use them for portrait session. Just too bulky etc. Possibly in a studio tho! So, I guess it all depends. The short of it, is that I am not the best guy who knows about LED panels I am afraid.

[@Jantonvid]

Great video, pros know that gear doesn’t matter, cameras are tools, you use the best tool you can get for a given situation. Anyone who immediately talks to you about brands either is trying to sell you something or they aren’t really a pro....

[@travisharrisphotography]

This is exactly true 😜

[@markelovett]

Love your honest, and wise sharing brother! Do some more videos. Been a long time. I’m like you, I shoot for income, and need to keep costs down. Godox works fine.

[@joeyjojo9135]

I can’t wait to see the hate video about Profoto. I was looking at them. However, the price for the remote have me shaking my head.

[@richardgollar6300]

I agree godox is good gear but there is no way I would do a wedding say in the summer and trust it. I have used the ad pro 600 for years and it worked great. But I did have it have issues in the summer months. Now for the cost I just bought multiple lights so when it got hot I just switched to another one. A great work around and still cheaper. But I switched to the b10's and have never had a problem since. I agree for the money you can't beat godox but for the security of knowing you not going to have issues profoto is a must for me. My biggest problem with profoto is the cost of there lighting modifiers. Great video and thx but after switching to profoto I just would never want to rely on godox when it counts again. But this really depends what category you playing in too. For some one just starting I agree 💯 godox all the way. And if you find yourself sticking to it and you start to outgrow what godox offer then make the change to profoto. Most won't feel the need to upgrade. The biggest problem I see is beginners buying profoto right off the bat and then losing interest or are just doing it as a hobby. But the ease of use and size I will never use anything else but profoto. But I also say this being in category 2. But then again I say this using both systems and in my world world if you can afford profoto do it if money is an issue godox is a no brainier.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Perfect comment Richard. Just woke up and read this. This makes perfect sense. I agree 100%!

[@robmcd]

I feel attacked. Looks at R5 with RF glass and a B10 and two A1X’s. ooo battery grip on sale *click* Fotodiox making bargain modifiers for profoto and I bought a stack of Phottix umbrellas for less than one profoto umbrella.

[@travisharrisphotography]

All that matters is that you are happy,. healthy and have some money left in the bank :-) If all the above is good, your good to go no matter what you choose to do.

[@rajeshpatel29]

True advised!!!

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks man! I wish more people would come to this reality :-)

[@bollywoodmauritius]

Thanks a lot man , I totally agree with you . I am in your second category but with a little difference, I started to buy second hand gear at much lower price and started to learn photography few years ago. I do but high end gear but not every year and upgrade to latest and greatest . My first Sony camera was A7 and after that A7R3 and I am not lured by A7R4 or anything else . I won’t get another one till it dies and I do use them . I always keep an eye over second hand High end glass and wait for prices to drop . I don’t watch any KZbin videos from those paid pimps as they misguide everyone out there . A few of my friends are working photographerS and as you said , for them these are just tools . I wouldn’t Imagine them or a person or your experience and knowledge shooting ten different lenses at widest apertures and talk for ten minutes about bokeh ball shapes 😂😂that’s complete BS and immature . People are made to believe that gear can over come gaps in knowledge and make them skilled . That’s a very dangerous thought . There is no end to it. Learn the basic first and go from there . Nothing wrong with buying high end gear as long as people know how to use them and make some memories or shoot stunning images and enjoy . Love your honestly man now regards from AUSTRALIA. And trust me , no one Will take on a paid trip for a camera launch as you won’t talk nonsense 😜😜😂

[@travisharrisphotography]

Thanks Bollywood! Yeah, sounds like your on the right track too! Good for you my man! Yes, its all about finding what gear works for you, dont overspend / be honest with need vs want and then make the best of what you have :-) For me, I am very happy with the Canon EOS R, and dont have a need, or want for anything else. This is a great place to be and I hope to inspire others to do the same. All these cameras now are great, it all comes down to what people really want to do.

[@tomhughes5123]

i hate these new tiny squirrely handed cameras .. i have biggish hands .. i cant grip sony cameras , z series cameras ... the bigger nikons d850 d5 im good with because theres something to hold onto ,

[@travisharrisphotography]

haha, I know what you mean. Adding a battery grip is another idea to give it a bit more mass, and at the same time offering some longer power options.

[@tomhughes5123]

@@travisharrisphotography yes im using a d850 with grip at the mo .. it just fits nice without plaiting my fingers . , theres some great spec cameras out there but why is everything shrinking

[@travisharrisphotography]

@@tomhughes5123 Nice! Yeah, my only guess is that now, without a mirror box inside they have the ability to make them smaller and lighter. For some, this is a big deal. For example, I could not stand to shoot a long 12hr wedding with my old 1DX anymore. It was heavy as fuck, and by the end of the night I wanted to smash it.. lol. So, the smaller EOS R.. was a lifesaver in that regard. Sure, it took some getting used too, but in the end.. I would never want that bigger clunky camera again. So, it may just take some time to get used too. Tho, rumors are that the new EOS R5 is a bit better in this regard.. so maybe they are finding a middle ground now..

[@tomhughes5123]

@@travisharrisphotography yes course , i chase animals all over gods creation and usually lug 2 fast teles around all day , so get that ,

[@bollywoodmauritius]

Try Panasonic S series , best ergonomics in the business , most under rated but brilliant

[@deroux]

Your focus is so black and white. I'm a pro photographer and videographer and I also have other income. I don't buy the fanciest gear. I buy what works.

[@travisharrisphotography]

This is great! It's also such a smart idea to have other income as you have. Good for you! I need to work on that, lol. Yeah buying what works without overspending, or letting the "want" control us is definitely the smartest move.

[@ramunasvalancius5455]

Andie deRoux 100% spot on. You don’t need latest and greatest, but China bs is not option. Just meter of time you gone realise, if you do work for money you need gear you can trust. I did learned that hard way, unfortunately for me🤣

[@drblakeslovick4607]

Funny you used a mechanic as a example... Mechanics have GAS too...Snap On,Mac Tools etc... they are always chasing new tools.

[@travisharrisphotography]

Haha. It was a carpenter. But, yeah your right I guess gas is everywhere. Lol. True snap-on, oh man. $$

[@ank28mz]

Words of wisdom indeed, but people realise it only after they have purchased all those stuff... Hahaha