Shifter: Let's Talk Camera Reviews

There is a lot of good in the world. And there is a lot of good online. And then there is a lot of stuff that makes me question the survival of our species. People camping in tarps in -40 temperatures. People building bug-out shelters in blizzards while eating moss and hunting with sharpened chopsticks. And let us now forget the sellers of "Zen" who always seem to be wearing thongs while wading in mountain rivers? Please explain. Camera reviews, most of them, also fall into the bewildering category. Harmless, for sure, but not quite usable or relevant for someone like me. Randon street images or pictures from the park do nothing for someone like me who needs to know if a camera ACTUALLY works in a real-life, real-world, assignment-type situation. Thankfully, from time to time, the camera companies halt their shameless pandering to those squeaky wheels and end up loaning a camera to someone who actually knows how to use it. In turn, this person does a review that actually means something. Enter Flemming.
flemmingbojensen.com/2021/11/...

[@robmcd]

I put my Fuji 56 1.2 up for sale.. the first messages from a prospective buyer was “does it come with the original box.” Like are you kidding me? That’s the most important aspect of lens purchasing?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Good grief.

[@kevrosas1]

To be honest I’d prefer the complete package incase I ever want to sell it. Resale value is very important as people who COLLECT will pay more!

[@tonyknightengale2447]

You my friend, have found a new subscriber! Love the candid honesty. Thank you.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Cool. welcome.

[@juanQuedo]

One of the things I like of Flemming's video was the fact that he had a plan. He knew the songs, the lighting setups, and had an idea of what he wanted to capture. The Menu discussion on the internet is quite funny though, you don't see professional photographers faffing around with menus on assignments, they have the camera set up for their needs, and don't touch it. The other thing that kills me is the videos and comments about AF; let's be real if you miss focus with any of today's cameras, it is your fault. Doesn't matter if this or that is 3 milliseconds faster..Although I am guilty of watching from time to time reviews, but it is more like tech porn for me.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yes, Flemming's review scares people to death. LIke me saying "Okay, let me see your portfolio." Most online folks run.

[@caleidoo]

It's a matter of convenience. If I can watch a video that explains me in 5min what the best setup is for fast action AF for my Nikon Z6II or what the best function button setup is to make certain actions faster in the field, I'm going to watch it and see if it helps me. User manuals are mostly just dry information, with little substance. Or experience. And true, I'm also interested in the tech behind it, that's the geek in me talking. So I very much enjoy a extended video or article discussing it.

[@Being_Joe]

I have actually thought of starting a channel where all I do is openly shill products and do whatever I can just go make money, again all transparent, just to see if it would work. Something I love about your videos is you are not trying to sell me anything and other channels are just trying to get me to click them affiliate links.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

It would work. It's the basis of the entire machine. I say go for it.

[@tedbyrom2748]

Enjoyable video as always. As to the Nikon F3 that you mentioned, it was actually in production for 21 years, the longest of any model SLR ever. It continued to be manufactured throughout the F4 production and even for a time after the F5 was released. I still use mine regularly. That's hard to imagine nowadays when complete lines of digital cameras do not last half that long. The user manual for the F3 is 46 pages and most of it is intuitive. I recently bought a digital camera (Fuji X-Pro3) and the manual is 340 pages and it took me over a week just to figure out how to set it up like I want to use it.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

The F3 was a blunt instrument and it's awesome.

[@randallstewart175]

To offer a "new" camera, the manufacturers have to offer a few new features. Over time, the accumulation of such features, and the lack of apparent utility which might allow you to just start using them, and also the lack of any serious outside sources to education a new user, means that you now need a catalog to keep track of it all. Personally, I hit this wall back in the late 1990s, when I wanted to buy my first (and last) point-n-shoot 35mm film camera. After some study of options, I ended up buying a Contax T2 and a Niklon 35Ti. I resold the Nikon and still have the Contax. One major reason I sold the Nikon was that while it had dozens of "features" for customization the Contax lacks, their control was buried in a multi-level non-intuitive menu you couldn't use without the manual and 30 minutes to sort out. The Contax has all of the functions I require, and their use is self-apparent.

[@jackmatthews9390]

I owned two F3s back in the 90s as a wedding photographer. I’d love to have them back. The F3s that is ;-)

[@JR-lw8yu]

You're giving me more ideas. Thank you

[@LiamFyfe]

This is great to hear! I went mirrorless recently, after shooting my trusty d750 making my living for a good few years… so i just bought a z6ii and a z7ii as i had a good knowledge of the nikon ergonomics and i really love the cameras, i often have people asking me how do i shoot with them as the af is rubbish, but they dont get that it really isnt! Its alot better than any dslr for me and has improved my photography! I dont need all the new trick gimmicks just reliable, familiar and to be in the right place at the right time! Its crazy how much negative influence all this online stuff has on peoples work. Great vid!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I hear ya. It's odd how many people spend time watching these things with zero chance they will purchase.

[@LiamFyfe]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 its completely crazy, more time out shooting less time watching gear vids is the way forward haha! Hope all is well!

[@celestialemissary4934]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 or they bought it and than they will watch a review so they can feel good about the gear they bought.

[@gottanikoncamera]

First off, I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your channel and your content (back when you were guesting w/ Silber). Going back even further, the original Nikon F was in the market 11 or 12 years, and I believe the F2 was in-market 10 or so also, so long product cycles in the day. After three or four years Fujifilm released an update for my X-E2 that was so massive, they had to issue a completely new manual with the update. That was kind of mind blowing.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Ya, that is cool how they do improve with software now. I love it.

[@oliverfox838]

Whenever I am in the market for.a new lens I watch as many videos as possible to ensure I find the one with the best bokeh. It’s essential. For example, that Don McCullin picture of the soldier with the 1000 yard stare would have been ten times better if there had been a bunch of fairy lights in the background to create a lovely bokeh effect where the focus falls off.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

exactly. It's the ONLY thing that matters. Vietnam was there to serve.

[@ghosttownsentinel5288]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 and @Oliver Fox........Dudes, this one is friggin' insanely hilarious!

[@GreenMorningDragonProductions]

I became aware of and started following Flemming based on a comment he left on one of your clips, about 18 months ago. I found it baffling that such a knowledgeable, engaging, and enthusiastic pro was so "off-grid" in terms of views and followers. No single KZbinr has taught me more or enthused me more, in regard to the benefits of a good wide angle lens.

[@FlemmingBoJensen]

Thank you so much, that is fantastic to hear. I am not really on KZbin to get views or followers, just to share some photos and a bit of my experience and if I can reach, inspire or provoke a few people, that is awesome. Thank you so much!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Very kind of you. And yes, the wide angle. What a great piece of engineering for us to utilize.

[@curiouslizard]

Outstanding video. Love my XT3’s, they disappear in my hands and do everything I need. I stopped watching the KZbin infomercial reviews quite some time ago, it’s really hard to find meaningful content through all the noise. Thanks for your work.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I hear ya. I have 2's and 4's. They both work. And so easy to use.

[@JeffreyHauser]

Ditto on the XT-3. I have 2 of them with battery gripes. No interest in an XT-5. 😊

[@JeffreyHauser]

Agree 100% Daniel on your comments regarding the constant need for speed, the latest & greatest next piece of gear. I go back to the film generation& I still have my Canon F1 & it works great. Try that with a digital camera. I have always patiently waited for several generations of updated camera releases before making a purchasing decision. This simply works for me & my style of photography. Best wishes.😊

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

My father had a disc camera. Remember those? Film also had it's short term things. Can't remember that awful, bizarre little format that landed in the early 90s.

[@valdezapg]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 maybe Advanced Photo System (APS)

[@gahe56]

Excellent video, Daniel ... as usual!

[@SivertAlmvik]

I like it when lens reviewers photograph white brick walls. Ah, yes, that is exactly what I do and I can relate! This lens fits into my "white brick walls project" I have kept going for 15 years, and plan to publish a 300 page photobook on in about 5 years times.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

You are the third person who has referenced that. Luckily, I've not seen that particular oddity. Nor have I ever really felt the need to photograph a brick wall....but I'm sure I have!

[@MTimWeaver]

"Beware the man buying Red Bull and lighter fluid." I may have to steal that (with attribution). It paints a very nice visual. :)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

This actually happened. Guy next to me at grocery. He looked like he was ready to party.

[@ThisIsWideAngle]

Found Flemmings videos a year ago and i was flabbergasted he only had a couple of viewers then. As someone who shoots concerts on a much smaller scale but also with love for the music: He is one of the few photographers who know what he is talking about. A master of his craft. Binged right through his videos until he stopped uploading. Great to see he is posting videos again!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

He and I joke about this all the time. We are both assured of never building a large subscriber base because what we love is the work and not the mechanics of how it was made.

[@FlemmingBoJensen]

Thank you so much! Yeah not at all in it for the views or followers. Just want to share some photos, some stories, some experiences!

[@humanelements2]

If only I could have the time back spent watching gear reviews to put towards actual photography...I've finally got a handle on it but only after taking a close look at what I was doing. For one, covering my general anxiety over feeling uninspired by focusing on kit over craft. Also noticing that having all of this information on specs didn't necessarily lead to more informed choices. It actually leads to FOMO first and then analysis paralysis. And when I WOULD make a choice I'd ALWAYS be left with comparisons against what I didn't have since I'd internalized the online noise factory. In short, seeking more information simply made me less satisfied with my art. I think about painting and how absurd it would be to agonize over the size and bristle composition of my brushes or spending more time watching brush reviews than painting. Yet that's what we photographers sometimes do!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

You are not alone. Don't feel bad. These platforms are designed to exploit your DNA. That's why they were built in the first place. It is FAR easier to watch another film, flip through IG than it is to actually go and do....something, anything. It's why gear review channels are the rage. The problem arises when you actually do go and do something. Suddenly, you are enlightened to know what it feels like to accomplish something solid photographically. After that, these channels just become noise. Empty calories.

[@leoeyegenartig8473]

Most of the photo enthusiasts are not interested in photography at all. It’s all about the newest gear.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Agreed.

[@jens198363]

So true

[@jamesm9560]

All I want is the perfect camera show.

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

Love it Daniel. I watch review vids but always tryn find ones where the reviewer is out there doing it showing good results, with the exception of David Hancock that lad knows his gear. Gonna checkout Flemings work now cheers and all the festive best for you and yours, hope 2022 is not the dry root I'm thinking it's gonna be.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

2022 is looking a bit off. A least to start out but you just never know. Maybe things work out....

[@kaushaltiwari9773]

Hello Dan. Thanks for your videos. I watched the video about One lens - One camera approach. I sold a couple of my lenses and I must say I couldn't have been happier. I just have a 45mm equivalent now on an APS-C camera. I am enjoying the freedom. Thanks again.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Hey, glad I could be of help....

[@kaushaltiwari9773]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 Dear Dan. Thanks for you comment. Could you, in one of your videos, share your setting for converting Raw to B&W? Thanks.

[@patyeaman]

Loved the Flemming review, thanks for the link!

[@FlemmingBoJensen]

Thank you!

[@ChoppersModelworks]

My problem has been trying to get a clear idea what the differences in image that the antique Tessar types of lenses produce. Not many 1900-1930 images have noted of what lens was used! That being said I'm surprised there isn't a bigger community reviewing vintage 35mm camera lenses for the new hipster types wanting a hipster lens.

[@randallstewart175]

I am not so surprised. The hipster type doesn't know image quality and cannot judge the difference anyway. Also, most such use their camera as jewelry, not to engage in an act of photography. As to serious technical camera reviews, who would do this? The only serious, independent camera and lens technical reviews ever published were primarily from Modern Photography magazine, which went out of business in 1986. If you can find old issues at a library, you'll probably find anything from the film era exhaustively reviewed. If you do not find something reviewed there, it's probably because whatever failed to meet their minimum performance requirement, in which case they just didn't publish rather than print a "It's a piece of crap" review. the standard of review these days is "I really like this lens", which is meaningless.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

The differences aren't great enough to force you to spend too much time on this. Like a vintage Leica 35 or a new aspherical. They are so close and if you are using something like TMZ it won't matter as the film won't match resolving power anyway.

[@davidrichards6718]

I bought an F3 when I was in college (I inherited just enough cash), I was still using it 20 plus years later, I had an F2 converted to shoot polaroid for most of my professional career, from 1972 if I remember correctly. I shoot for pleasure on an X Pro 1, and work on a XT30(which I don't like as a camera, but it delivers the files I need)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Had an F3, two actually. Still have one. With Zeiss 50mm and it's great. Like a hammer.

[@ChrisWhittenMusic]

Ha, I posted about this on a Leica forum and either got ignored or a push back. I have a friend who reviews audiophile hi-fi. He borrows or buys the gear and uses it extensively for several months. Then he comes to some conclusions. And it's not this is bad versus this is good, he says it's just his opinion, his preferences. At the Leica M11 launch, all the usual suspects appeared in my KZbin feed with video reviews. They had had the camera for 24 hours. None of these people make a living as photographers.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yes, it's bizarre but it must be working because those folks keep getting the gear. They don't help me, and I'm never going to get sponsorship. I don't even want sponsorship. Just time to shoot .

[@maran604]

Nailed it! Real deal people are disappearing in the sea of consumerism

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

There is no money in real.

[@MrPetermc199]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 Maybe someday

[@takaya4203]

I watch lots of camera reviews just for fun, laughing at the way reviewers try to reinvent themselves to empathise some utterly pointless features. Some of them even struggle to justify the cons as consciously choices made by camera manufacturers thus transforming them as pros... Sorry for my bad English and kudos for your channel, I"ve just started to follow it.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

They are caught in the cycle. Be witty, be funny, cover the features and then fall entirely flat when using it.

[@robmas57]

Dude, you crack me up, but so real. What are we coming to : (

[@MTimWeaver]

Getting into the actual message of this video, I started into actual portrait work with a Nikon D200. My next upgrade was a D600, which had the oily shutter issue, so they swapped it out for a D610...which I continue to use since I got it in 2013. Sure, it's a little long in tooth but, a) it's paid for and b) I don't have to upgrade to Adobe's cloud extortion scheme. I shoot almost exclusively using OCF, so low-light capability isn't much of an issue. Do I wish I had a camera that could do better? Yeah...but that would cost me money I don't want to spend (even though I can afford to if I wanted). Given my recent existential questioning about my photography, I've saved a lot by not buying new gear should I decide to get out of the hobby. (also, just watched Flemming's video...and I see what you mean. A great non-review review)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

My two film cameras are 50 years old. My main digital camera is five years old. The key, finding time to use them.

[@TimberGeek]

Indeed! I very rarely watch camera reviews, in fact if it isn't medium format or the new Nikon flagship the chance of me watching is almost zero. And when I do it's either incidental to a vlog or I go to a very select few working photographers.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yep, I was thinking of getting a pice of Leica gear and looked at ONE person and called ONE person. Found what I needed, the truth, very quickly.

[@sarahdippity]

Your sense of humor -- :)

[@DominiqueFoucart]

Very refreshing (from a guy buying only second hand when the previous piece crashes)...

[@WaywardAce]

Im gonna watch this again ..... it was that good

[@peterlaw3837]

This comes at a perfect time for me. I decided earlier to use the "don't recomment this channel" for anything in my suggested videos which have clickbait titles or "BEST AF EVER!?!" type titles. It's time to vote with our clicks to try to get away from content which does nothing but breed discontent in ourselves and what we have. Create things to enrich, not 'content' for contents sake and to sell version X+1.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

It's what works so people will do it. Same for the new Apple laptops.It's such a minefield of nonsense. I'd rather NOT buy a laptop then be subjected to the deluge of clickbait.

[@jackmatthews9390]

I so appreciate you.

[@maxbashyrov5785]

Btw, what flash for fujifilm are you using (if any)?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Nothing. Zero. Nada.

[@garymauldin38]

Back in the day (I’m an old timer), I could walk into a brick and mortar store and actually hold a piece of equipment I was considering. Yes, it´s true. You could click the shutter or focus the lens. Many good camera stores would even let you shoot a couple of frames if you would buy the film from them. Nowadays, we have to rely on reviews to get any understanding of a product. If you want to see and try before you buy then you have to rent, which is hundreds of dollars. And, you are correct in that most reviews are biased and marginally helpful. Internet shopping killed the camera store and begat the online review. Insidious.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Nothing in stock. Gotta order. Weeks. Or go online. Yep, it's a minefield out there.

[@randallstewart175]

Fully agree. I find that as to equipment which I have owned and used for decades, 95% of YT reviews of such items is just a parroting prior YT videos by someone else. They always have errors or omissions which would be relevant to the accuracy of the review, meaning to the operation of the camera. The level of errors in videos presented as tutorials is just depressing. The mitigating factor, which I've never seen discussed on YT, is that the vast majority of current photographers are shooting images of digital or film being scanned to digital, then posted on YT or in other social media. The limited quality in such technology is such that very few people could sort images shot on a Leica from those shot on a Holga.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yes, most of how people are displaying is crap. IG mostly. Who cares? Giving their lives to the almighty Zuck. I print books and prints. That's where things get interesting.

[@john_murch]

This is exactly right, and the new generation YT'ers are teaching the same mis-information to a new generation. Rinse and repeat.

[@MrPetermc199]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 I agree, the moment a file becomes a print something interesting happens, maybe because you have turned something virtual into something physichal...

[@borderlands6606]

KZbin camera reviews are vlogs, so vlogging capability gets disproportionate emphasis. Metrics like human tracking in continuous focus, and whether the camera has a flip round screen gain monumental status. One man 180 degree camera operation has become totemic in a way it never was, and for most users, never will be. Most people are still behind the camera, and how things work from that perspective is what matters to them. It's interesting how some cameras gain enthusiastic followings, in spite of the clamour to change things. The Ricoh GR series barely changes between generations, and the Lumix G9 is coming up 5 years old and selling well. Specs are (literally) the food and drink of camera reviewers, but mere seasoning to regular camera users.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Oh ya. All it takes is one hipster to create a buzz. Bad imagery and all. The Ricoh is the perfect example. I don't know a "real" photog who uses that thing but the hipster street folks act like it's the second coming. If I see another window reflection with the Ricoh I'm gonna puke, again.

[@Nikitas111]

Thank you

[@c141charlie]

Huge +1 to everything you said. Most of the popular camera reviewers are terrible photographers. I think it comes down to how they spend their time. Reviewers spend all of their time obsessing over the latest tech, whereas people like Fleming spend their time obsessing over their next shoot. Fleming is rare because he takes time to do both. But there are more Flemings out there. Adam Gibbs is the Fleming of Landscapes. His work is superb. As such his reviews carry a lot of credibility. Interestingly both Fleming and Gibbs shoot Fuji.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

it's true. They review, they don't shoot. Consequently....

[@MrDCB1234]

On point!

[@mountainpunkdesignhouse7018]

Oh hey. I was in Santa Fe today. Didn't see you at The Shed nor Horseman's Haven. Damn I'd love to meet you.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'm actually at home but heading out tomorrow.

[@ukolbe5589]

Excellent.

[@michaelnikonfuji3539]

Love the mayonaise in the can

[@malmedia]

It's a game of numbers and timing. I think it simply comes down to the fact that "those reviews" are not made for you. They are often made for the larger consumer base of enthusiasts. That larger number of eyeballs is what makes it worthwhile to put in the time and effort in doing the less than artistic reviews. For some insane reason, I watch a ton of reviews for cameras and brands I have zero intention of ever buying. I watch them to learn about features and capabilities that I may not know about. I watch them because I am interested in the technology, the iterations of progress. And eventually I will buy something new because it has enough advantages over what I currently have that I will justify the purchase. And I have probably heard several hundred times, from some of the bigger YT camera reviewers, that every camera from the last 5 years is a good camera and gear doesn't matter. So the reviews get into details that may not matter to you, but may matter to those that are looking for critical bits of info that will make them say yes to a purchase. Then some point after the gear is available to the reviewers for an extended period of time, they will get into the quality and usability aspects. And maybe a year later they will do a long term review.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

For me it's about one thing. The images. What did you make. There isn't much coming from the online world that is worth noting. Unless you want to learn how to build following, a real skill by the way, because the work being produced just falls flat. I'm fortunate, spend a lot of my time with people who have a high bar of knowledge and skill. It's about the take. The rest is just noise.

[@PeterLariviere1]

Absolutely 100% agree. I just bought a long lens and my wife just bought her first mirrorless camera and it has been a few months of watching reviews that at the end of them we would look at each other and wonder why we wasted our time. But luckily we did get the information she needed to find what would work for her. Anyway love your videos. My brain actually works for the 15 or 20 minutes I am watching your videos!!! Thanks for not dumbing down KZbin!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Hey, you got something and now get to use it. Keep going.

[@mikeabcable]

Interesting… I don’t have to worry about gears because All money goes to the travel. If I have the time and money I go somewhere and shoot/practice. I have one camera and a kit lens. Many people dislike the kit lens. However, I enjoy its versatility (yet most of the time set to 50mm) and it is my fantastic travel mate. I can’t use any camera system without two dials on the grip. My brain hurts without them. Other than that I’m happy with any gear.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Just booked a ticket to Mexico and am teaching in Albania in May. A few trips these days but so enamored by where I live I don't feel the same need to move around these days.

[@Damon_365]

I used to keep up with all the reviews. I always wanted the best, or at least better gear. The gear never made me a better photographer. Shooting lots never made me a better photographer. I took up graphic design and drawing and then watercolor and I became a better photographer. I’m still not the best but better to my eye at least and much happier with my work. For me learning composition and seeing the light was more helpful than any gear I could ever get. I have a old Nikon film camera, an xt3 and my iPhone and I’m pretty ok with that. The best images I have come from my own hand. It’s al the camera if for anymore, reference.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Funny how that happens. Hmm, light, timing, composition, palette.

[@nicktauro3201]

Nice "Nightshift" reference.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Bill Blazjowski. HERO

[@IanMcCausland]

I thought Nikon dropped F flagships for every decade? Which is amazing if true. I love my Nikon F4s I still have it !

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I love Nikon, still have the best viewfinders.

[@johnlaw6735]

I'm still with Xpro 1 and XT1 because "this sucker" doesn't have $$$ to buy a new model every year 🤣🤣🤣

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Love my XT2's. I have the money but am stuck between what I want to shoot and what I need to shoot.

[@stephenobermeier8374]

That's so true - and it makes me feel bad with my own shitty two reviews not going in that direction.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

It's never too late!

[@andy_an_outdoors_guy]

I would never even consider the Zuperflex 5001 - the original had a much better feel in the hand. ;)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

And the snakeskin wrap and peak action indicator.

[@CRJines]

It's the escalation of consumerism. It's ridiculous, and it's everywhere. It's in the Bushcraft world for people are continually buying a bunch of crap that they'll never use and will never need, and the photography community, that is on an endless quest for the latest and greatest in gear. I used to teach photography workshops. I was amazed at the amount of money people will spend on gear, but have absolutely no skills at capturing images!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I recently heard that several of the bushcraft folks had been outed for having entire crews behind them. Not surprising in today's world I guess. And I think one of the weak points of photography is that the medium-especially in the consumer/prosumer side-has always been linked to the kit. I used to do quite a lot of talks at design conferences, both here in the US and abroad. At the end of my preso, I would always say that I felt there was a disconnect between photography and design and if any of the designers in the room felt like they wanted to work more with photographers they should contact me as I could put them in touch with people I felt were doing it right. I never had a single designer approach me until after a talk in Canada when a designer walked up and asked "Know why none of us approach you about photographers?" I said "no." She said "Photographers don't know anything outside of their lane. They are geeks." I told her I thought that was too broad a generalization. Flew to next country, gave same talk and same exact thing happened.

[@lorgar87]

Thank you Daniel! I should watch more videos like yours and less like the others... Perfect video for these times... Oh wait is that a Brompton?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yep, Brompton 2x.

[@CristianGeelen]

I still want that chocolate donuts. 🧐

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

So...do...I.

[@WyantWin]

I’ve learned the name of the bushcraft community now. XD

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

There are some real folks and then a lot of dumb people doing dumb things in the name of following. Embarrassing but they don't think so.

[@lagazettedesfrancais8155]

I am far from being satisfied with my present camera, but I've got to use it knowing its failings. Same with everything. Perfection does'nt exist as they say in my country where everything is very far removed from perfection.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Perfect tends to be boring. Not sure there is such a thing as perfect camera. Maybe for one assignment something can be perfect.

[@lagazettedesfrancais8155]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 Perfect boring suits me. Nothing left to strive for.

[@carlosgastelum8251]

The rock … (that was the movie that came to mind when you said nick cage and Sean Connery )

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

That's the one. Michael Bay classic.

[@lagazettedesfrancais8155]

Hear, Hear !

[@jasongold6751]

the closest to these KZbin reviews and ads to this malarky, is 'ask your doctor?' OMG.

[@JeffCreates]

So, you're saying i should just wait for the Zuperflex 5004?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Or the SUX 2000.

[@fellowcitizen]

"America, when can I go to the store and buy what I need with my good looks?"

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Hopefully soon. I've got a shopping list a mile long.

[@kamalx7216]

SPEAKING THE NEEDED TRUTH!!!! I HOPE THEY GET IT, IF NOT OH WELL 😎

[@saxmangeoff]

But wait… Do you have an affiliate link for that ZuperFlex 5002? You forgot to mention it. 😆

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

God know when someone buys one. Then she tells me. So I got that going for me.

[@immop]

It is all driven by a wholesale sell-in model. Camera companies get money in the bank by selling in huge volumes into large retailers - they are not retailers who live from continuously selling through items, where a long lifecycle means easier planning and more sales data. But even then you‘d need new stuff to attract people to the stores. We‘ve reached the point of diminishing returns for photographers now - the big jumps are in video, with faster readout speeeds for less rolling shutter and higher framerates.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yep, stills is feeling the pressure.

[@hanumanguy]

Daniel, your Sean Connery was really good. Got any other impersonations?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'm not sure. It was spontaneous!

[@LePetitMondedeMichel]

I have buy a new camera two month ago if I believe the review on that piece of équipement I did't do the best purchase he don't posses the wow factor he was just a reliable fun to use camera and each time I use it I am amaze on how excellent was the photo maby I miss some thing

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

'as long as you are happy, that's all you need.

[@jacksonmcdonald1673]

True. All true.

[@peterbarna6151]

Yep, Sales did this.

[@StuartIsett]

Oh man, my Zuperflex 5000 got my career swinging. I usually rent a camera before buying it. Review the thing myself. Then there's Ken Rockwell if you still only use HTML 1.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Don't hate the player, hate the game.

[@federicotheironlyportrait]

The new Sony A7IV looks very interesting... but my "vintage" A7R2 is still a great camera after 6+ years ;)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'm waiting for the A7RV..............

[@federicotheironlyportrait]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 I wish they upgrade or at least reduce the RX1R II's price 🤞

[@macallanvintage]

Each model of camera is a cleverly crafted compromise, based on company strategy. In the future new XPro4, if Fujifilm incorporates a new IBIS, improved AF, 10 additional film sims, dual card slots, enhanced weather sealing and 6 stop ND filter and a new EVF, Fujifilm would be KILLING its other model of cameras. Who’s going to buy the XT4 etc if the new XPro4 has all the bells & whistles fantasised by most KZbin Cameratologists?

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Once the public proved a willingness to buy more than one new camera, per year, in both Japan and the US, it was all over.

[@macallanvintage]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 You hit it right on the dot, MASTA👍😂

[@macallanvintage]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 Its very similar to the American firearms industry. If only a segment of society bought just ONE gun per household purely for home defense, then the entire American firearms industry would hv to downsize or close shop. The trick, as in the camera industry, is to transform firearms into a highly gear-centric hobby, to legally encourage any individual to buy a limitless number of firearms + using magazines and social media to encourage playing this hobby via accessorizing not only the gun but the gun owner himself (tactical holsters, vests, body armour, knives, torchlights etc). The exact same strategy is used in the camera industry to create Cameratologists and to grow Cameratology. The art of Photography as a hobby is an unlucrative industry. The big money lies in the cameras, lenses and accessories. Suddenly, all the newbies (many of whom hate China) are enthusing over the over-priced Peak Design camera straps and bags😂 that are made in Vietnam and China😂😂.

[@StuartIsett]

Of course, when ever someone asks why I use Nikon, my stock answer is, "I know where the buttons are".

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

That's what I love about the Fuji. It operates like my FE2 in 1988.

[@FredRanger]

I’ve been guilty of doing those types of reviews. That being said, KZbin being the second largest search engine on the planet, I do see value in explaining how a camera works or helping people to set up cameras based on what they are trying to accomplish. Now my films have evolved to share more real life shooting experiences and why we make photographs. One subject I’m currently exploring is the positive side-effects of “dowgrading” the tools we use to tell our stories. It goes against the trends and I might lose subscribers, but people seem to find way more value out if these than just another lens or camera superficial review. I like how you brought the subject on the table, Daniel. Now let’s see if we can start a “movement” strong enough to offer less brand pushing non-sense videos ;-) Cheers 🤟🏻

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Ah, this will have zero impact on the brands doing what they are doing. It will only continue in the direction it is going. I'm lucky, my brain isn't sophisticated enough to sit through a menu review. I need to see the work and then work backwards.

[@mountainpunkdesignhouse7018]

My guy.

[@mwales2112]

Awhile back I sold my Fuji gear (accept theX100V) and picked up a Leica M240 that I'm in love with and I think it's due to it being a much more basic camera with a small menu that after setup I don't even dive into now but to format the card. Thinking of even moving to a Leica M-D with no LCD or menu at all... I just love the basic aperature, shutter speed and ISO way of shooting like when I started shooting in the 70's. Thanks Dan for another great video.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I like simple. lets you see what you need to see.

[@bushbeatnik4480]

You really should try bbq sauce in the can. It’s money.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Can I shotgun it?

[@bushbeatnik4480]

@@DANIELMILNOR505 LOL i prefer a fork but send it! Seriously though, appreciate your work. World needs some truth telling teachers these days and you always bring your A game.

[@TheWooloomoolloo]

If you outgrow your photo equipment, you're a full-fledged camera user. If you don't and also need reviews done by other people, you need prescription photo pills. Still, everyone can take good photos regardless of the camera brand, tripod manufacturer, iso number or lens aperture. I take my phone out for a walk, do some shots every day, print A5 pictures and consider every opportunity that comes along a chance to test my skills, guts, vision and imagination.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Yep, use what you got.

[@lelandsmith2320]

Covid was an intelligence test and we flunked. Be that as it may, I went out today shooting native plant photos with my 28mm IS and my 55-250mm IS. I don't need bokeh, sunstars, the Milky Way, fast shutter speeds, mega buffering, yada yada yada. My want list is getting shorter all the time. I got the fotos I wanted with the gear I have.

[@robmcd]

Watch out for the coma and loca my friend

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I can't remember the last time I used the motor. Or most of the other features. Luddite and loving it.

[@BobFitz64]

If I wasn't too old to make it look ridiculous I'd ask for an A M E N. Okay, I went there.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

With all the power invested in me....HEAL this review.

[@bioliv1]

I plan to skip a7IV to a7VIII, and then get the a7IX. Eventually I jump ship to Nikon if they want me as a Nikon Ambassador and give me a Z9 for free!

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

never know. Get some IG following and they might think you are a genius.

[@bofhberlin]

I'm a nikon z user since 1 year. For me its always hilarious. John Doe whatever photography getting lend a 7.5k camera and they hype it. Then they get a 2.5k camera and complain about things they will never use and compare it to cameras double or third the price. Like complaining that the station wagon will not run 250 km/h like a ferrari that is 1times the price. Often these "reviewers" complain about things they never do by themself. Its in 90% complaining about other peoples problems. And its always the same. you find a channel with 30k follower. Nice content, honest conetnt. When they hit 100k they get cameras lend from sony and canon and from that point on they use intercontinental rockets to solve problems where a hammer would solve it best ;o)

[@bofhberlin]

and in addition. Everybody is complaining about the Zs AF. To be honest, you have to get it known by time. And yes its maybe "only" 90% of Canon or Sony. But its a great camera. And these reviewers treat it like it would be unpossible to make good pictures... How has ankind made pictures 20 years ago?.... Impossible ;o) ;o) ;o) I make many pictures of rallys/ protest marches in germany. Mostly in the evening, i use 80% a manual voigtlander 50 1.1 I have fun and like it. Last year i have been to venice. x-pro 2 mith manual chinese 25 1.8 Thankfully i reached the state of "beeing a photographer"; not a tech nerd collector anymore.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Following is a blessing and a curse. Exactly.

[@neilgenower9950]

Not a bad Connery :)

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Hello Ms. Moneypenny.

[@The_Hero_Is_Back]

So disappointed in this video. Anybody who disrespects the Zooperflexx 5001 clearly has no right to call himself a photographer.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I was a commie loving anti-christ before the Zupperflex 5001. Now I p&^% excellence.

[@spyhunter6411]

Best way to find camera reviews that matter is to find someone who's work is either I. The same field as yours, is applicable in scope to yours, or you like, and see what they have to say. If the person doesn't have work you can find or that you like, or is relevant to yours... Why listen to their thoughts. It isn't applicable.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Exactly.

[@MrPetermc199]

I have asked several KZbin photographers where I could buy their prints. I never got an answer...

[@spyhunter6411]

@@MrPetermc199 there actually are some that sell their work, but you have to filter through many for sure.

[@GarenMeguerian]

Someone had to say it.

[@ericrjennings]

Hey you’re talking about me… well, not really, mine is just persistent GAS journey with my own money but I’ve landed on the A7C and Film so…. I think I’m done

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'll remember that Jennings when we are in therapy for our "issues."

[@hoagyguitarmichael]

Hilarious. Helpful: side by side review of two pieces of gear with illustrative photos. Unhelpful: a litany of specs of a piece of gear with nary an image in site.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

It's so bizarre

[@rgssaurus930]

And when they whine about some "major" issue like sharpness, whatever thing, and from their examples, I can't see a diference :-) I watched gear reviews for a while, and then got over it. I stay away from all gear reviews as a dogma, because it's not in their opinion of the gear I'm interested in, is in the output in real life, not on photos of a brick wall (there are very few brick walls around here, so it would make for very boring photos), and then comparing center sharpness vs edge sharpness. It's irrelevant

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

The entire conversation is really based on irrelevant data combined with an addicted audience who would rather watch nonsense than actually venture out. Look, we all do it to some extent. I'm guilty.

[@Nobody-Nowhere]

Amateur markets are the big markets, its not like the reviews are for professionals. Its about the best camera, the ultimate camera. And this battle is fought on camera forums where the ultimate consensus must be brought about, and everyone going against it will be fought against. Because everyone wants to own the best camera, that takes the best pictures. And its the one single camera for every possible use case. Because its the best. This is actually one of the weirdest thing, that people can't understand cameras as being tools for different jobs. Also, actually showing quality work would be elitistic. Amateurs hate good photography, much like the masses hate good art. Read Baudrillards "The Beaubourg-Effect" essay.

[@robmcd]

I own a Canon R5 and I was laughed out of town when I challenged a reviewer of the A7IV that the Canon R6 offered so much more value for money than the Sony. But because I didn’t own the R6 but rather the R5 I didn’t have the right to make such things.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Camera forums....yikes. Same applies for most forums in my mind. 4x4 world, cycling, flyfishing. Rabbit holes.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'm waiting for the R9

[@mortenjensen2457]

ÆØÅ - Fake language 😂

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I knew it!

[@FlemmingBoJensen]

SO FAKE! :)

[@bcegerton]

Couldn’t agree more, no point in a review unless it’s a “real world, hands on review”, I’m not interested in all these specs, don’t understand most of them anyway, I want to know if it will just do what I need it to do. Is that too much to ask? Seems like it is most of the time.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Ya, show me. That's all.

[@caleidoo]

Personally, I don't understand the hate or laughter at reviews. You just approach them for what they really are - clickbait. And just take out what is useful, which is easy of you know your stuff. When I am in need for a new piece of equipment, I'm not going to rent out 3 different bodies or lenses, I just watch or skip through a dozen reviews or articles and narrow it down. And talk to people. That gives you an overal impression and smooths down any stupid reviews errors or bias. If you're lucky you realize it might improve your performance or workflow and you can decide what to do about it. And - believe it or not - some reviews or articles are actually very thorough and informative. It's also a matter of convenience. But yes, most of them are comical, it's like a template they use. It's always the same. New camera launched? First you have the wave of vloggers saying it's amazing and the new model kills the competition. Than, a week later, you have the types stating that the new model is actually crap - sometimes even the same vlogger - just to make sure you open the video. I do have to say, I had no connection at all with the video of Flemming. Almost no information about the cameras, just his emotional journey and experience. It's a standard social media PR item. I would never consider that "a review". More like an entry in his journal. Which is fine of course, even it's made for/by Fuji. But nothing made me feel I would want to use his cameras or brand. Everyone says their camera is the best ever, including him. And on a more technical note, not super impressed by his images and I had a feeling he wasn't editing his photos. Was he just shooting jpegs? The overexposed blond/bald (?) head of one of the members of the band kept distracting me. If there is plenty of DR in the RAW files, you could easily turn that spot down a notch or two. Love the F3 btw, I had one when I was student in the 2000s, but sold it because I needed the cash. Finally bought another one last year, this one is here to stay.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I'll take his review over a "standard" review any day. He showed his work. That right there puts the review in the 1%. That film told me what I needed to know without anyone saying it. For me, I can't skim worthless reviews for some bit of useful. I just need someone I trust using it to tell me what I need. I did this today, reached out to someone I trust who said "X." and I said "okay, got it." I've seen his work and know he knows exactly what I need.

[@CharlesDunkley]

Flemming's video was fantastic. Thanks!

[@nicolask.3825]

It's probably tempting to name bad examples, but I'd rather see examples of good reviewers.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Ya, no use in calling people out. And heck, they are happy. HUGE view counts and every brand in line to send kit. I need more.

[@masterofphotography]

The person often doing reviews thinks Fuji is retro LOL no idea how to use a camera or why they are designed as such. I have actually seen Fuji users tape the exposure compensation dial so it does not move.

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

I think most reviewers are just that, reviewers. They aren't photographers. In fact, I would guess most have no real training in photography at all. But, it doesn't matter because the geeks can't get enough.

[@parey555]

Currently standing on corner by lieca in Manhattan holding sign saying why lie i need a lieca got a dollar… till then I’m still rocking a xt2 cause to me it does the job i need done. Yt reviews to me are just like if weed stores did em. You’ll want to try them all and they all will get the job done 😂

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Leica makes beautiful things. Always has. But man do they own a very specific piece of the crazy. I say...good for them. I used those cameras for 25 years and if I had to choose the camera that was most important to me over the years it would be the Leica. But I can't watch their films.

[@ratgirl13]

Speak your truth Milnor, the ones who get it, get it-the snowflakes will buy themselves a new camera to make themselves feel better.😺

[@DANIELMILNOR505]

Or two...