Quick Tip - Take Better Portraits Using Single Point AF

A quick tip video covering how I take portrait photography using single point AF. I am often asked how I shoot portraits, so I thought this would be a good time to create a quick tip video. Let me know if you like this format, and I may post more!
Follow me on Instagram: / realworldpicts
=== LINKS ===
Nikon D3400 w/ 18-55 lens: amzn.to/2GQJjpv
back button focus (Nikon): • Got your first DSLR (i...
back button focus (Canon): • Back Button Focus for ...
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[@tomnicholas8264]

A series of "quick tips" is a very good idea! Looking forward to future vids.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback Ron ... so far, so good:).

[@feliperodriguez8373]

Make a night portrait video with the D3400 :3

[@GKklips]

Ron Lawless totally agreed to what Ron said.

[@gregorychastain5092]

I have watched many of your other videos and have learned a lot. This quick tip is great and I hope you keep them coming. Thanks again.

[@leodelaluz]

I love this kind of videos, straight to the point, waiting for more! Nice!!!!!!

[@moonprobe8751]

Great tip. Decades ago on my Minolta 35mm SLR film camera, I used to always focus on the eye as you describe, but with my DSLR I became lazy and let the camera auto focus as it wanted. I will follow your tip in future! Many thanks.

[@samandjerrys]

I'm REALLY glad you did this video! I too have a D3400 & I just recently did some portraits for a friend who needed Senior Pictures taken for her yearbook! They turned out so well it made me want to do more portraits! As of now photography is more of a hobby, but I'm learning A LOT & hope maybe someday I can make a few extra bucks with it. I HOPE TO SEE MORE VIDEOS LIKE THIS! THANK YOU!!

[@hachewie]

Yes I loved this format. Great video. Since watching your back button focus video I have been using it. Can’t go back as it is too good.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:) If this video does well, I produce more ... stay tuned!:) BBF is great ... used it for years and never went back:).

[@kchose2766]

Here is why I like real world .... Affordable camera bodies and lenses... A few expensive ones of course but mostly gear that a hobbyist can afford and the tips are always spot on.!!!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:) Basic gear is fully capable of great shots ... a bit of knowledge and experience go a long way:).

[@MrPoppabear255]

I like the quick tip format - please keep them coming.

[@chrisdavid1410]

Your videos are always a great joy to watch and learn from. Thank you.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback:).

[@Goval400]

Oh dude i have learned so much thanks to your videos. I appreciate your content!

[@coppeis]

Same here!!!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback and glad to be of help!:) Stay tuned - more on the way!:)

[@visualpurple74]

Just starting out in photography and after watching many of your videos, I'm super excited to try the many techniques you've laid out. Thank you for these videos!

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help Lee and enjoy the ride!:)

[@JOANNAMARIEx]

Great tips, I have the same camera and I’m tryigg my to navigate my way to find the best settings for portrait photography! Thank you!

[@richardrizzo_photography]

These quick tip videos work great for me, keep them coming. thank you.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback Rich!:)

[@tagiti]

thanks mate, your vids are always enjoyable and informative.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:)

[@adamkee97]

I just purchased a used NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D prime lens for my D5600. I know autofocus won't work with it, but it's really cheap, like a quarter of the standard price. Wish me luck, I'm gonna use manual focus in 2019!

[@RealWorld]

Nice!:) If you eyesight is good, you will be fine:). I have the D version as well which works great on a body with AF like the 7000 series. Nonetheless, the aperture is great!:)

[@WonderWoman1992]

I just learned a lot here in this video! Thank you so much I like these quick tips

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help and thanks for the feedback!:)

[@WonderWoman1992]

@@RealWorld of course! Thank you for your time making videos. It helped me a lot

[@frenchfries8745]

Amazing man as usual and I love to see more videos like this short and straight to the point. I wish next time you can film yourself while shooting and composing your image so we can have a better idea. Anyway thanks so much for sharing this high quality content with us

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback and glad to be of help!:) I like the idea of showing how to compose and shoot as well ... I may try to incorporate this down the road:).

[@h.wYv9141]

Hello sir, I really appreciate your videos because they are simple and straight to the point. Im looking forward into more videos!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback and glad to be of help!:)

[@8888dps]

This is one of the best and simplest tip to improve taking portraits. Thanks a lot to you. Really admire your work and your lessons. Waiting for more :)

[@RealWorld]

appreciated the feedback and glad to be of help!:)

[@BertEngada]

Amazing! As always, thanks for sharing with us these helpful tips.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback and glad to be of help!:)

[@nayanaababu]

You are simply amazing...every time i watch ur videos i m learning something new and falling more in love with photography 😀

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Nayana and glad to be of help/inspiration!:)

[@anujasharma9677]

Very powerful content, crisp and of immense use. Thanks a lot,

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Anuja!:)

[@cindylang6206]

This is a great teaching tool! Thanks.

[@shakilahmedsarowar2246]

Sir,you are amazing! Using just basic level gears,you creat some great pieces of art.you are my idol.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:) Entry level gear is fully capable of producing great results ... a bit of knowledge and experience will do the trick:).

[@potatoesofdefiance]

I have learnt so much about basics of low light shooting, working with in-built flash, taking portrait shots, creative photography et al thanks to your channel. As always, love the content and presentation. It would be great if you can include video clips of actual shooting process (as you usually do) with the quick tips videos as well so that it shows how you are handling the focus pointer, shooting angle, distance from the subject etc. at the time of taking the shot (in addition to the settings you share), which be a big help.

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help and appreciate the additional suggestion:).

[@itsxayaxh4834]

More quick tips please. Informative and very straightforward. I don't have to jump into specific time to get to the point. Well done!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback Aya!:)

[@Srijitupload]

Incredible...Thank you so much again for this amazing guidance...Looking forward for more. :)

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback ... if this video does well, I will produce more:).

[@beas2761]

Thank you for the videos. I like how you focus on the tips rather than brain washing people to use super fancy camera.🥰🥳

[@RealWorld]

lol - you are welcome and i feel the same. i am lost how other photographers on KZbin are heavily focused on the latest gear and not much on actual photography. the latest is nice to know but should not be all consuming.

[@user-bt1us5se5h]

i do enjoy all your videos. pls do post more.

[@ming-jieluo8157]

The body post and the framing is really good

[@tusharkamble6585]

Videos,like this please keep coming!! "Don't Stop"

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:)

[@MrMoonpie001]

Absolutely Loved this! Can I request a quick video on shooting the moon in manual mode. I get confused as to where all the setting buttons are located and that is a good practice one for shooting in manual. Thanks appreciate all you do, I shoot a Nikon D5600 so it would be similar to other Nikons. Moonpie!

[@mikeclark3013]

My favorite KZbin photography channel! I so appreciate your efforts, and your willingness to interact with your viewers. That’s something missing from some other channels. Have you been back to the Smokies? I enjoyed your pictures from there. I’m fortunate to live less than an hour away.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Mike!:) I have given thought to a return trip - very soon ... wanted to see the leaves change color, hike a number of trails, and snap a bunch of shots:).

[@ytr8989]

For still shots, I’ve been using single focus since the days of film. My D3300 does a good job tracking subjects using AF-C, even with only 11 focus points. I finally purchased the 35mm, f1.8 DX, and it really sharp!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Alex ... ahhhh yes, I used film cameras many years ago:). I really like the fixed 35 and fixed 50 ... both are sharp/solid:).

[@anlsahal4147]

I did a wedding photoshoot with that combo 😁.

Great video and explanation. And, If I may, I'd like to see some quick tip video about exposing for a shot that has a bright background with the Nikon D3400. Most of the times I end up with a way too dark subject on the front, even though I'm using Single point AF.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback/suggestion Victor!:) I am familiar with you situation and will add it to my short list of quick tips as I have some thoughts on it:).

[@TheNorthernhero]

Love the quick tips!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback!:)

[@TheCoendijk]

Keep up the good work, love it!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:)

[@tagiti]

I like that you do vids for the ordinary man....the ones that cannot afford the expensive gear, I shoot with a 2nd hand Nikon D5500, it will be a long while till I can afford anything better, as for expensive lenses, well , I can only dream, I am a disabled pensioner and a proud vet, in the UK. I have to take a deep breath when I see people on youtube doing vids with the most expensive gear available , then begging for patreons.. for rank armatures like me it is refreshing to see things that we can relate to, So thank you for your time and effort, I hope that your subscriptions increase, god bless.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Leon and glad to be of help/inspiration!:) I have shot with various cameras ranging in cost from low to high. Many entry level cameras today were considered high end not long ago ... a time when people boasted how great there were, etc. Guess what? They are still great!:) The newest equipment offers various bells and whistles which can be of some/limited help, but they will not make anyone a better photographer. Are they nice to have? Some are. Are they must have? No. Entry level cameras will satisfy a majority of users in my opinion:).

[@tagiti]

@@RealWorld true words

[@didimiorios3781]

Great advice, thanks!

[@GreatestWarrior2049]

Appreciate your vids man. Keep it up👌🏻🙏

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback!:)

[@GreatestWarrior2049]

RealWorld no problem at all man. I have a Nikon D5300 so your vids really do help a lot

[@bagery]

More quick tips please, thank-you!!!

[@earavichandran]

Though short video, it is interesting. I used 99% single point auto focus on my d3400. Focus and recompose is my style of shooting. Thanks for the valuable video.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback Ravi!:)

[@pimplefivehead2006]

I tried out back button focus after watching your video on it, haven't even thought of going back. Until the next video, Cheers.

[@RealWorld]

Awesome to hear and glad to be of help!:) Stay tuned ... more to come:)

[@doubledip3181]

As a beginner I often have questions that may seem very elementary to other more experienced photographers . I have watched just about all of your videos more than once and yours are extremely helpful to me. I guess I'm wondering about when you recompose after locking in focus how the camera stays focused on the original spot.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post Steve and glad to be of help!:) I started the channel with the concept to demystify photography - to make it easy to understand. If I can do it, so you can:). Regarding focus - when you lock focus, the camera will keep or lock focus even after you move the camera. I use back button focus and love it ... this allows me to push the button on the back of the camera to lock focus and then use my index finger to take the shot (the shutter button does not try to lock focus when using the back button focus technique:)).

[@doubledip3181]

Thank you so much for the reply I saw your video when I first got the d3400 2 Christmases ago and I have always used back button Focus. Your lessons are so perfect for someone like me I juat hope you keep them coming.

[@scottrl]

Always great Videos. I love the idea of quick tips. I think i may have one. You mentioned in your last video on Light Painting about locking focus and then turning the camera back to Manual Focus so to remain focused on the subject. Can you do a quick tip video on that please. I am not sure if you turn the Manual Focus on the Lens or in the Menu. Cheers

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback/suggestion ... I like it and may add it to my list:).

[@thetireddadtech3827]

Even though my t7i has a great number of focus points, I prefer single point for about 75% of my usage. Great video as always!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback!:) I used the T7i to record some videos as well (I like the STM lenses for video:)). Agreed ... many cameras have multiple focal points but I predominantly use the center:).

[@bartdejonge06]

a series of quick tips would be great ;-)

[@MrUNCLESAM84]

I like it thanks Mark that was amazing 😊

[@RealWorld]

thanks for the post/feedback!:)

[@markb4881]

A great idea for quick tips! Maybe some quick tips on long exposures as fireworks are coming!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback/suggestion Mark ... I like it and may add it to my list:). Where/When are the fireworks?

[@markb4881]

@@RealWorld Nov 5th in the uk!

[@nabinrai749]

thanks as always

[@oglou6425]

awesome.

[@nidheeshms4499]

Awesome👏✊👍

[@MoranGuyVideos]

waiting for the next video.....thanks

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post Moran ... i have been offline line for the last few works while working on other projects. Plan to have a new video relatively soon - editing now:).

[@manishpatil5516]

Thank you🙏🤩

[@Enrique-the-photographer]

You haven't uploaded any videos lately (i’m sure you know that LOL), I hope all is well. I just want to wish you and your family a great holiday season.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the well wishes Enrique and I wish you the same:). I have been busy on other projects but plan to post again. I have also given thought to creating a Patreon account and offering specialized support/service.

[@tarif7541]

you finally did it :)

[@RealWorld]

LOL ... if this goes well, there will be more to come:).

[@varunnamadar9679]

Hi sir, thanks for sharing you experience. A question: is there any cable remote release for D3400 ? Please suggest

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help!:) Unfortunately, no ... Nikon did not include a cable port on the D3400.

[@user-dj9su5fn2u]

我喜欢。期待更多的人像照片！More samples

[@RealWorld]

谢谢，很高兴能为您提供帮助 :)

[@CharlieVN]

eventually, your camera is phased out, you do want eye AF. Portraits can be still, and they can be dynamic if you have a dynamic model performing dance like moves.

[@RealWorld]

Photographer movement requires a slight different technique:). I leverage back button focus ... if a subject is moving, I can simply hold down the button and keep the center focal point on the subject:). Another option is to using 3D tracking but the camera might mistakenly lock focus on the wrong subject, etc.

[@rebeccacocker1636]

Hi there, I found your videos about 5 weeks ago and am absolutely loving them. I have started watching them all and are taking notes for when i am out with my camera. You take some awesome shots. Is there a way to record the camera settings within the photograph ??

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Rebecca and glad to be of help!:) Yes, the camera settings are automatically recorded/saved with each image. If you would like to see them during playback on the camera, press the up or down arrow on the round pad ... this will toggle through the captured settings:).

[@a.beckwith4576]

More please...Sir

[@SoripsRock]

Make more videos.you are the best.

[@RealWorld]

thanks for the post/feedback!:)

[@miller1520]

I don't have professional models about here. My kids and my family & friends are my subjects. Especially my kids are quick little buggers. They are running before their feet even touch the ground yet. I just do not have the luxury of recomposing. I take my shots in an instant, on live view and AF has to get it nailed first time. If it doesn't, I don't want the camera. Your advice is sound, but only when your model isn't putting up fierce resistance. That said, I liked your video cheers!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post Gabor and welcome from the United States!:) I can relate to your situation and fully agree - tough to get great shots will little ones are in constant motion!:) The answer? Back button focus:). Back button focus helps to keep a lock on the subject when they are in motion (providing you can keep the focal point on them:)). I also like Sony's AF system which is great for fast moving subjects.

[@miller1520]

@@RealWorld Hi, great to hear from you :) Excellent, I'll check out that back button focus. Good idea! Heard of the option but never gave it enough of a chance. Cheers!

[@kerenbanget1]

What about wedding photography that requires fast speed & sharp image. which focus mode I'm going to use?

[@RealWorld]

I use back button focus combined with the center focal point. When using back button focus, simply hold the button down while keeping the center focal point on the subject and snap, snap, snap:).

[@donovanphipps777]

We miss your vids Mark! I hope that you are well.

[@RealWorld]

thanks for the post donovan!:) doing well and plan to post another video soon ... took a break to work on other projects:).

[@donovanphipps777]

@@RealWorld I am happy to hear that you are doing well. Hope the other projects have been successful and fulfilling. Take care! Thanks for your reply :)

[@crisarkiscee]

Tips when taking a photo while travelling on tourist spots please. Composition, Camera settings, lens type, etc.

[@worldofallah5867]

Please help

[@chandanganguly7201]

Sir in a wide aperture 2,2.8,or 1.8 can recomposed technique be applied? I do the same but subject get out of focus

[@RealWorld]

yes, absolutely and not a problem:).

[@JimRandolph]

I received a Nikon 3500 for my birthday this summer and have been loving your videos. I do have a question for a possible future video. I have no ambition of being a pro, just a hobbyist. I did buy an extra battery, SD cards, a couple of lenses and a camera bag. I also use a lightening to SD card reader to quickly download photos and edit them in Snapseed (I just do JPEGS so Snapseed is fine because: hobbyist). But I'm concerned about backups/storage. I use Google Photos (I realize those aren't 100% full files but they're big enough that they're fine with me) and I ALSO have them in Amazon Photos. I tend to delete all but my favorites from my phone/tablet and search for things in Google Photos. I do upload many of my favorites to Shutterfly so we can get occasional prints, etc. Am I good with those backups (that aren't really backups) or should I get a separate hard drive for storage purposes? And if so, how often to replace (because I don't trust they'll last).

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback/question Jim!:) Sounds like you have a good/solid setup and on the right path to explore your hobby further. One day your hobby may expand to include additional post processing packages like Lightroom and into the world of RAW which is a whole new/fun/creative world:). Nonethelss, shooting is JPEG is great as well and will certain serve you well. Regarding backups ... this is what I do take it for what's worth:). I use cloud services like Amazon and Google Photos to share images and use external storage backups. I typically recommend/use two external storage devices. Backup all images to one device and give it to a trusted person or place it in a fireproof safe. Connect the other device to your machine and backup nightly/weekly/(as needed). Once a week/month/quarter (or what makes you feel comfortable), swap the devices. This will ensure you have one copy on-sight readily available and one off-site or nearby. Just my two cents and might be worthy of video!:)

[@anlsahal4147]

With 11 focus points it is challenging to compose the image as you want at wide open f stops. Me and my D3300 knows that very well 😁.

[@RealWorld]

:) ... agreed, I typically stay with the center focal point and recompose - seems to work well:).

[@gmansworld7186]

This wasn't said in the video but in the last photo you focused on her left eye correct? Thus, allowing her left arm to be in focus and her right arm to drop off correct? Secondly, what looks closer to the camera should be in focus than out of focus ie. left eye and left arm correct? I'm only speaking for model photography because it would look weird the other way around correct?

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/question:). I went back to take a closer look as I want to ensure I properly address your questions:). On the last photo I could have focused on either eye as they are both the same distance from the lens. Nonetheless, I did focus on her left eye:). Her left shoulder is in focus simply because it aligns with her eyes (her right shoulder of further back causing a nice blur). Regarding 'what looks closer to the camera should be in focus' ... correct, however focus on the eye that is closest:). For example, if she were leaning against a wall with her hands resting on her knee, you should focus on her eye and not her hands even though her hands would be closer to the camera ... make sense?:)

[@gmansworld7186]

Yes, it makes perfect sense because you are keeping the face in focus and if you wanted her hands in focus also, if they were behind the focal plain you would raise the f-stop till they were in focus. Thanks!

[@colesmith4418]

cool and helpful vid, you look like John Cena if his dad was Tommy Lee Jones

[@mugheesahmed4922]

Great video to tell about foucsing point... Juat one question, that you are using auto focus continues AF-C but not auto focus single shot AF-S... Why is that so? I thought fr single shot AF-S is better

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback/question and glad to be of help!:) I really like back button auto focus (check the description for a link to my vid on it). When using back button AF and leaving the camera in AF-C, you have the ability to hold the button down to take advantage of continuous focus to capture a moving subject or simply press and release the button to capture a stationary subject (mirroring the benefits of AF-S) ... when using back button AF along with AF-C, there is no need for AF-S in my opinion:).

[@mugheesahmed4922]

@@RealWorld thanks for the information. I normally use the single shot using AF-S for potraits or normal. Photography. .. But now you metioned i would definatel try the continuese too

[@frederikvanreusel]

I am a Nikon D3500 owner and I love it but i'm thinking about to get a second camera, a full frame one and I saw that the Nikon D800 is pretty cheap at the moment on amazon for around $500-700, is it worth upgrading from the D3500 to the D800?

[@RealWorld]

Ahhhh yes ... sounds like you are approach the long standing question - stay with crop or move to full:). I have shot with both and enjoy the full for various reasons. Can the crop sensors take great shots? Absolutely - I have proven the same on various videos. Nonetheless, if I have both a crop and full sitting next to each other and I am heading out to shoot portraits, I will reach for the full. The larger sensor captures more detail, better in low light, etc. Keep in mind that you will need new glass and the costs go up:).

[@frederikvanreusel]

@@RealWorld thank you for the answer! :)

[@lokatpic]

I find it is a nice information. But a minor problem. Most of the people who a new camera may not understand back button focus. Or how to set it up. So when you said recompose you are using back button focus, They aren't. I have see Peter Hurley, who is crazy . But he is one of the best headshot photographers. Steve Perry and some others. I think you have a very good way of presenting quick tips.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback Don:). I included a couple of links to back button focus in the description of this video which should help anyone not familiar with it. If someone does not use back button focus, they can press the shutter button halfway to lock focus - hold it halfway and recompose and take the shot:).

[@Nam3Iess]

He made a video about BBF a long time ago, just go through his videos and You will find it.

[@Shreyas_25]

would love to see Nikon Z50 review

[@RealWorld]

Ahhhhh yes, I would like to get my hands on it ... if so, count on a review vid:).

[@dipta4219]

What should I do for taking a group photo?

[@RealWorld]

Great question and this might be worth of another quick tip video:). In short, take a close look at this video I created a while back which has some solid content - kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3jIpKuAmr5rldU ... this will help you better understand the total depth of field that will be in focus to capture the group:).

[@sandraheroux5004]

I have a question.Recently I took pictures at and event for Super Cross. It was my first attempt at taking shots using my 18-300mm lense,Nikon DX-VR 3.5-6.3 ED.I was trouble shooting to get my right exposure.I couldn't get it to line up in the middle +/-.It was way to the left as I recall. Shutter speed was at 200...ISO...3600...and aperture 5.3?.....My pictures where a little dark. I added brightness from my Nikon d3400 and I just barely made the grade. But...I wanted more light...This is confusing...I don't always want to edit every shot I take. I was inside a collosium with bright lights high up in the ceilings.But that lighting wasn't enough. Did I need a flash? I tried it but that didn't make a different either. So...I didn't make any changes much and like I said, barely made the grade. Probably lost some pictures because I didn't want to edit all of them. So how do you take picture indoors with a Nikon d3400? thanks Sandra.

[@RealWorld]

Ahhhhhh yes, indoor action shots - this might be on my short list for upcoming quick tips!:) I have been in similar situations many times and can fully relate with your situation. Sounds like you were on the right path ... higher ISO and wide open aperture. I suspect you may have wanted a faster shutter speed as well. Nonetheless, what is the key to getting more light? Either slow the shutter down which is not an option if you want to prevent action blur /or/ open the aperture more which I suspect was opened as wide as possible if you were zoomed to any extent /or/ increase your ISO which if you increase too high, you will start to see grain:). Given your particular situation/needs, I would increase the ISO another stop or two (6400 or 12800). Lightroom along with other post processing programs have the ability to remove/reduce noise ( I demo reducing high ISO in this demo - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnzRoX-YaJedZ9k ). You might also consider which the ISO to auto and set the max value to 12800 - this will allow the camera to choose a value between stops to hopefully achieve a proper exposure:).

[@sandraheroux5004]

@@RealWorld thank you

[@MrMiss-cp9bw]

Just adding on the GuruShots talk on/from the previous video: I both like and dislike the platform. I love being 'seen' by *a lot* more people than i.e Instagram. I dislike how it _seems_ to be a bit of a money pit. You have to vote on other photos (makes sense) to boost your exposure [bonus] - One way to get around it is to use a booster, which you get a few for free to begin with but if you want more you'll have to pay. Want to unlock a competition ahead of time - Use a key, and when you're out of keys = Pay some more money. Is a picture doing bad in a competition and/or does the app suggest a swap? Free for the first few times, but then it'll cost money. The prices you're able to get are basically just those boosters, which in it self is nice. However it seems like they only payout to the top person. I still think GuruShots is a nice app, and I've seen _a lot_ of neat pictures and got great ideas for future photos. Will I ever spend money on it? Probably, more than likely, not - The prices are to high for me to be interested in it 😊 As I said, I think it's a pretty nice app, and I'm already a 'challenger' and have a top 10% finish within one of my first goes :) Oh, neat video btw 😁

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback:). I have know nothing about gurushots but may take a closer look:).

[@MrMiss-cp9bw]

@@RealWorld You're more than welcome Mark - I'm happy to "contribute" any way I can 😊 And I think you'll do well on the platform as well, but please be aware (also, probably more for others) that it's kind of a money pit 🙂 Also it takes some time to get that booster up *especially* if you're enrolled in multiple contest and aren't interested in using boosters. Getting the meter up takes about ~2-5 min of swapping back and forth + There's adult content (You can block it if you don't want to see it - After seeing a few guys 'pride', I had enough hahaha). I've stayed away from the platform for a bit, since I don't really have any new pictures: Upside is I've gotten a few ideas for new pictures and techniques I'd like to try out. I saw a few pictures taken using a leaf 'as a tube' to take a photo of something else, and some of them was really great. Also it's nice to see pictures from around the world and see 'what other people see' etc. etc. :) Sorry, drunken rant 😅

[@RealWorld]

LOL ... drunken rant :)

[@MrMiss-cp9bw]

@@RealWorld *giggles* It's nearly 5AM now, I have a day off work Tuesday/today and I'm beer'ing up! 😁 Flip side: I have an appointment with my hairdresser in 6 hours 😴😅 - Mr. Drunk is out 😁

[@tiffannywilliams5150]

Hey. I have D3400. How I find center focus point? I have hard time with this. Let me know. Do i need bbf? Did it work for focus on the eye?

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/question:). The center focal point is noted by the small red dot in the center of the viewfinder. You can move the focal point around by using the pad on the back right side of the camera (look through the view finder and press the pad in the different directions to change the focal point). If you want to get back to the center focal point, press the OK button in the middle of the pad. BBF is not required but nice to have:).

[@tiffannywilliams5150]

Thank u so much. I finally got it. U are a lifesaver.

[@YoungValor]

When you say focus an recompose, do you mean use a focus point, an focus on the eye then center the image

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the question:). Yes, use the center focal point > lock focus on the eye > recompose and take the shot. Recompose can mean to center the image or place the subject on the left or right if you use the rule of thirds (I might make a quick tip video regarding the rule of thirds:)).

[@YoungValor]

That would be great, think we learn better when is done on screen, then talking on how to do it.

[@welhim21]

@@YoungValor but most of the time this only works on f4. f4 below will blur some of your shot.

[@RealWorld]

Unless you separate your subject from the background:) ... this sounds like a good subject for a quick tip video:).

[@YoungValor]

Yeah seen many times an always wonder why they be doing it. When they focus I see then tip the camera up an then they bring it back to the center an take the picture.. up focus an bring it down snap.

[@DibyenduRoySCREnter]

After learning a lot from you i have already used my D3400 enough since last 2 years. want to upgrade the body now. which one do you recommend, Sir.? BTW, I am an event photographer and a stock photography contributor

[@RealWorld]

glad to be of help!:) if you plan to stay with a crop sensor, i might stay with the 3400 or perhaps the 5600. if you plan to go with a full sensor, i might suggest the D750 or perhaps the sony a7 iii :).

[@DibyenduRoySCREnter]

@@RealWorld thank you very much indeed. i am happy with crop sensor. i don't shoot much in low light situation. would you kindly recommend any mirror-less crop camera? because there are much more focal points in mirrorless.

[@RealWorld]

hmmm ... i might suggest the sony a6400 or sony a6600:)

[@sandraheroux5004]

Hi again...Today I'm feeling optimistic! I want to continue in photography...with my d3400...I know it's an entry level...and..there are so many better cameras out there.From what I can tell...if I choose the right lense it can satisfy my urge to take photos.I've experienced it with my 35mm Prime lense.Pictures came out pretty sharpe.But I want to go further.In low light conditions..I don't have any lense to fit low resolution for indoors. I think I need a lense to take nights shots and family portrait. Would a 16-35mm lense do the trick? What do you recommend??

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post and sounds like you are on the right path!:) The fixed 35 and many other lenses can shoot in the low light the differences is weather you want to hand-hold the camera or use a tripod. If you plan to use a tripod, any lens will work. If you want to hand-hold the camera, you will need a lens with a wide aperture (and prepare to increase the ISO).

[@sandraheroux5004]

@@RealWorld thank you so much...Since my post I ended up with the 85mm 1.8...I believe it's considered a lense with a wide aperture...I've taken some shots and I have to be very careful when hand held.Ready to use my tripod as well. lol

[@sandraheroux5004]

Don't mind me, but I'm returning my 85mm lol...it isn't what I was looking for.. I want to take great landscape photography...thoughts on which lense?

[@RealWorld]

LOL - not a problem:). The fixed 85 is considered a relatively solid lens but not something I would using for landscapes:). The fixed 85 is best suited for portraits. Nonetheless, I might suggest the Tokina 11-16mm ( amzn.to/2qaAOxX ) ... this offers slight zoom on the wide side which is great for landscapes. In addition, the lens is relatively affordable compared to others:).

[@sandraheroux5004]

@@RealWorld Your going to shoot me but not with a camera!!! LOL - I picked up the stigma 10mm-20mm before I saw your post...I went out and took pictures of some close by scenery.I felt I had to return it, perhaps a little too advanced for me, so I took back. My 85mm prime,the bokeh effect was stunning, and that out weighed my decision to go back to it....I'm going to give it more time and possibly later on will venture with a wide angel lense!! Don't get me wrong, I usually never have to return anything I buy....but I met my match in the photography business..it has me running in circles! lol..............thank you so much...till we meet again :)

[@abhroy]

Dear Sir , I pray & hope that you are in good health and working on some IR photography posts . Yesterday evening , Feb 10 India , I made a Moonrise video at the park right next to our house . Applied a lot of things that I learned from you :) Looking forward to upload this evening . Shall dedicate the post to you and also mention your channel . Eagerly waiting for new posts from you . Thank YOU . Best Regards . Sincerely , Roy .

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post Roy!:) Nice video using the P900 - a huge lens capable of capturing the smallest details from a distance. I am well and plan to post another video soon ... been working on other projects over the last couple of months:). Keep up the good work!:)

[@abhroy]

@@RealWorld . Thank YOU , Sir . Gifted with one great Teacher I have been . As an attentive pupil , looking forward to not disappoint You :)

[@jefnatuurfilmer]

My Canon 750d has touchscreen it means that I can touch the place that I want to be in Focus.

[@RealWorld]

I used the 750D as well ... used it to record this video as well:). While the touch screen is nice, the focus method is different when compared to using the view finder. Nonetheless, it is convenient and not bad:).

[@jefnatuurfilmer]

@@RealWorld What I also like about this camera It cleans It's own sensor

[@jefnatuurfilmer]

Would you like to make a video about that camera. and review It.

[@RealWorld]

Various Nikon models self clean as well but not certain how effective it works:). Self cleaning mechanisms work by sending micro vibrations to the sensor before turning off. The idea is that the vibrations will shake off any dust, etc. Nonetheless, I created a review on the 750d as well - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYXMapSLia6HotE

[@siddhantlingam6595]

Great video, in future videos can you also explain why one should use dynamic area AF or 3D tracking in Nikon the scenarios...

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback/suggestion!:) I thought the same as I created the video showing the various options ... I like the idea and will add it to my list:).

[@nabukodonosor777]

Where was that intro video taken? Belgrade maybe?

[@RealWorld]

Novi Sad:)

[@nabukodonosor777]

I knew it was somewhere in Serbia. :) Did you took that video? Novi Sad is a beautiful city.

[@RealWorld]

I heard the same (nice/beautiful place), however I did not take the video:).

[@cam-captured]

Where have you been!

[@RealWorld]

Ahhhhh yes ... working my way back from various projects:). I have another video on the way:).

[@rupeshshivdas2593]

No new videos??.. Where/How are you? All well??

[@RealWorld]

Ahhhhh yes ... thanks for the post!:) I was just thinking the same - I need to release a video or two:). I started a review video on the fixed 40mm when bad weather arrived, so I waited a day or two and more bad weather arrived. I am thinking to create more quick tip vids though so stay tuned!:)

[@potatoesofdefiance]

Thank you so much Mark. Tried this (in addition to advice and guidance from your previous videos on the portrait photography) and I can vouch for the results...they were so much better. Of late, I have been interested in B&W photography (especially portraits / street captures). I have been checking out works and techniques of established greats such as Fan Ho. Along this enthusiasm, I was also introduced to another photographer with a unique approach to (self-)portraits, Fiona Lark (instagram.com/fiona_lark/). I have seen B&W portrait photography before and self-portraits, but not with the freedom and depth as Fiona's work. All of this has piqued my curiosity about playing on just light and shadow, draining all the colors out of the photographs for a change. However, as is expected, my own endeavors towards capturing B&W stills at this juncture are frustratingly fruitless. Sharing here as reference to my request for any tips you may have for B&W photography, especially Street and Portrait. My sincere thanks in advance.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/feedback/info:). I like B&W as well for various reasons - seems to give certain shots the right grit/feel. I shoot in color and post process to B&W if desired. Post processing in B&W allows additional creativity.

[@MissLiveLaughLove1]

Hi M.G., This evening (2-3-2020) I noticed you have not posted any content since this video. You being MIA had me concerned so I did a little searching to either find a phone number or email address for you. I found both although I am not sure if they are current or valid. I was going to reach out to you using either or both until I noticed you replied to comments about 2 weeks ago stating you are working on other projects. I promise I am not a stalker. Lol! Just an appreciator your content who noticed your absence and was hoping all is well. I hope you are enjoying whatever you are working on. Happy New Decade!

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the post/concern:). I took a break to tackle other projects. I am editing another video now and hope to have it published soon. I enjoy helping people and making videos and would like to continue as time permits. I had time this morning and thought to check comments ... something I did on a frequent basis:). I have sooooo many in the box ... instead of going from oldest to newest, I decided to go from newest to oldest:). I will see how far I get:).

[@MissLiveLaughLove1]

@@RealWorld Thanks for replying. I am glad you decided to go from newest to oldest. :-) I look forward to your next video. Be Well, be Blessed.

[@ArabianKnight7771]

Canon or Nikon dslr

[@RealWorld]

I use both and find both are solid. If I had to choose, I miiiiiight lean towards Canon for video and Nikon for photos. They can both shoot video and photos but I give a slight edge to one or the other depending on needs:).

[@ArabianKnight7771]

@@RealWorld Awesome answer thats what ido but it makes you feel better to hear it from a pro thanks man

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help!:)

[@shaoqxn]

Can I ask which city do you live in?

[@RealWorld]

These shots were taken in the great city of Indianapolis ... a great/awesome city in my opinion!:)

[@shaoqxn]

@@RealWorld I agree with you. I hope to travel to the city one day.

[@eccentricsmithy2746]

focus and compose changes the focus plain. Not good if you are shooting shallow.

[@RealWorld]

You will be fine unless you are open to f/1.8 and very close to the subject:). I created a video on depth of field which describes this topic in more detail - kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3jIpKuAmr5rldU

[@sandeeppacha2886]

Video is good and informative, but bg music is like a photo with lot of distractions.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback:). Music is always interesting to me ... tough to find, etc. I may try a video without any background music:).

[@worldofallah5867]

its take me only 4 min to subscribe. 😊

[@RealWorld]

Thank you and welcome to the channel!:)

[@worldofallah5867]

@@RealWorld the pleasure all mine. I bought used D3300 with cool lens set. Nikkor 50mm 1.4G Tamron 24-70mm 2.8 G2 Tamron 70-200mm 2.8 G1. I need assisstance

[@worldofallah5867]

I really appreciate if you recommend some of your vedios a step by step learning. Regards

[@RealWorld]

Glad to be of help!:) I have a handful of good/informative videos that should be of some help ... got your first DSLR, now what - kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHqWm6eHm8lgqbc discuss the various modes - kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYXRlomJrdtkp9U different scenes/modes - kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5OxYmutYpp4iM0 freeze water droplets - kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmiloaSZr9R9bbc etc. :)

[@smoothie-suzie]

Indianapolis? DFTBA

[@RealWorld]

You are correct Alexander ... all shots were taken in the great city of Indianapolis!:)

[@smoothie-suzie]

@@RealWorld It's a beautiful place to live I think.

[@nicholashamilton40]

What's your name?

[@RealWorld]

Hello Nickolas - my name is Mark:)

[@pjcardone164]

Love your videos but the music asked to go!

[@RealWorld]

LOL - thanks for the feedback:). Music is always a challenge for various reasons ... perhaps I will create a quick tip video on it:). It is tough to find something everybody likes, licensed for free use, etc.

[@pjcardone164]

People listen to you because they like you and they like what you say, not because of your music. I found it distracting regardless of what kind of music you would play.....Breaks my concentration. Enjoy all of your videos!

[@gregorychastain5092]

I have watched many of your other videos and have learned a lot. This quick tip is great and I hope you keep them coming. Thanks again.

[@RealWorld]

Thanks for the feedback Gregory and glad to be of help!:)