THEY GAVE YOU THE WRONG ADVICE THE WHOLE TIME. BREAKING DOWN THE PHOTOGRAPHY MYTHS!

[@simon_dentremont]

What’s your favorite lens? I’m always looking to learn about my viewers’ habits to make more relevant content. Let me know!

[@maxgrillmickellpetersen156]

300mm f2.8, it works for almost everything except for birds that sit in the middle of lakes,

[@marys53]

For now…. 24-200 and 50 prime

[@soumaSR]

Nikon 200-500 f/5.6-budget friendly, sharp, extremely versatile only backside is it's as heavy as some medieval blunt weapon

[@YOUandMaine]

Canon 24x105 L on an 80D.

[@eaterofjams]

Sony 24-70mm GM II. The only wildlife I'm shooting these days is my 4 y.o. daughter :) I love the versatility of clicking her from far, in action, as well as portrait-ish at 70mm. I'm so glad the Gen II is much lighter and (maybe) sharper than Gen 1. Although I'd hate to let go of my other lenses, but should I ever have to pick just one to live with for the rest of my life, the 24-70 it'd be (24 GM being a *very* close second because of much larger aperture which I use inside museums/aquariums etc.)

[@Sphyxx]

Youre not just a professional photographer youre a professional teacher and guide, your content is highly inspiring, informative and getting me into the deepest depths of photography.

[@simon_dentremont]

I’m working on a video course for wildlife photography. Can I use your comment in promotional material, with attribution?

[@Sphyxx]

@@simon_dentremont of course

[@Pfagnan]

Je suis d’accord avec lui tu as vraiment un beau talent!! 👍🏻

[@mhogue1963]

Fam this is truth.

[@blwoods21]

My dad lived the myth of "sun behind the camera", so most of the family photo's are people squinting and his shadow somewhere in the foreground.🤣

[@simon_dentremont]

haha love it.

[@thatoneguy7047]

The first thing I do in that situation, when people ask me to take their photo, is to turn the flash on. When they review the image, they're amazed and say something like, "Dude! You're such an amazing photographer!" 🤣

[@maxmohawke]

@@thatoneguy7047 Why do you turn the flash on?

[@thatoneguy7047]

​ @MaxMohawke If a person is backlit and you want to see their face in the image, use the flash to illuminate the person.

[@mmadmic]

Same with mine, and the subject in the center of the frame ...

[@tomgoffnett5624]

I cannot get over how great an instructor this man is.

[@simon_dentremont]

Too kind!

[@kenim]

How he effortlesly pours out rivers of knowledge is amazing.

[@mrhrby1650]

Simon should make us some photo shop videos

[@johnwinter6061]

Yep. He's great.

[@nicktasteless360]

using auto iso in a wildlife photography genre is a no brainer. The amount of once in a life time moments i did not miss because i used auto iso is really something. Nowadays cameras have a limit of the max iso you are comfortable with.

[@BensCoffeeRants]

Yep, makes it a lot easier, giving you a much higher success rate, for sports or wedding etc as well, auto ISO makes it so much simpler as long as the settings are intelligently setup.

[@dayemized]

did you mean "not using auto iso....." ?

[@BensCoffeeRants]

@@dayemized Nope, we mean AutoISO, use it, Just needs to be set appropriately!

[@carlwinslow5905]

​@@dayemizedDef should use it. I mean, heck, everyone is already using auto everything. With my workflow, I use auto ISO with specific manual lenses from long ago so I have to use manual aperture & focus.

[@railspony]

Totally agree. If I messed up the shot when I was using auto-iso, it was almost always that I set the upper limit too low! I can clean up noise in post way better than I can increase shutter speed in post!

[@youritguy1]

Simon, you're the only KZbinr who actively discourages using manual mode. I appreciate how you emphasize creativity over struggling with manual settings. Honestly, I recently spent 20 minutes trying manual mode and found it frustrating. Switching to P mode and automatic gave me shots I loved. Thanks for always promoting creativity.

[@mikafoxx2717]

It really depends what you're doing. If you're doing wildlife, just use auto iso, man. Full Manual is good for wedding photography where the white and black clothing would throw the meter off. If you know the light, or have time to dial in the exposure exactly, then manual is good. You get much better at it with practice. I still use program mode for run and gun fast situations. Sure, you can pick your aperture to taste, but beyond a point you have to adjust it anyways.

[@youritguy1]

@@mikafoxx2717 I’ve been getting more comfortable with using Shutter Priority Mode when it comes to taking photos. Recently I’ve been at events where things are changing so fast that being in Shutter Priority gives me the flexibility I need. :)

[@johnwinter6061]

Yep. Way to go. Same with manual and auto on a car!

[@soumaSR]

Simon, I am pretty new to Wildlife Or Photography overall in general. Discovered your channel while searching for Good Manual Mode videos subscribed and watched every video in your channel since just want to say your content is pure gold no annoying "what's up dude!" Or brand based shilling just 100% content with super helpful tricks & tips. Much love & appreciation👌🏼❤

[@sauptiksaha4875]

Ekjon bangali k eikhane dekhe besh bhalo laglo.🙂

[@soumaSR]

@@sauptiksaha4875 আরে দাদা আমরা সব জায়গায় বিরাজমান😉

[@Mimiclobster]

Good point. Also sick and tired of the "Hey KZbin, how you doin?" Simon's videos are top notch. That's because he's a grounded east coast Canadian. Eh

[@thrallingFRglory]

@@Mimiclobster Liked the little eh at the end

[@MrVanmaniac]

I love Simon's videos. They really helped me a lot in improving my skills and getting my photos from mediocre to above average in a relatively short amount of time. Always high quality video's, well edited and illustrated. Great technical info. But what I like most is that Simon always emphasizes to have a critical look at yourself and this helps me realizing what i'm actually doing wrong when making choices out in the field. The best lesson i've learned in photography, or any other hobby: first admit your own failures and then act accordingly for better results. :)

[@MarcosCodas]

I'm so glad I didn't hear a famous couple's years-long cries of "micro-four thirds is dead" and got a Lumix G9 5 years ago. Paired with the Olympus 12-40 2.8, the system gives me dual cards, weather sealing, amazing 4K footage and photos that have gone on billboards without resolution issues.

[@Rickyleestjohn]

Favorite lens is my Canon 70-200 F/2.8. I truly appreciate your honest and to the point videos, please do not ever change this. It's really nice to listen to a professional, who is a professional. Thank you again for a very informative video.

[@peterdenyer3002]

Listed the same lens as my favourite too, a truly brilliant lens.

[@wanneske1969]

I hate it when people say 'with such an expensive camera you can't take bad pictures'.

[@aerialfilm1]

Myth 4 for the win! I started on an all manual camera forty plus years ago. At the time I just put the needle in the middle and got proper exposure. All the while without knowing I was learning about exposure. Several years ago I was wondering why I’m upgrading my cameras to the newest tech, only to turn off the tech I paid for dearly and shoot manually. Now I don’t hesitate to use the auto features in my camera. I can take over if and when necessary. Leaning on these advancements in camera technology has reduced my workload, and increased my success and most importantly my enjoyment. My ego has not suffered.

[@mcloutier5]

Ah, the needle. I miss the needle in my Pentax KM.

[@aerialfilm1]

@@mcloutier5 your flashback motivated me to go get out that very camera my folks gave me in 79 and put a battery in it and give it some exercise. Even though the last service was 2004, the needle lives!

[@mpw621]

Yes, but is more fun then shooting in manual? I am from the film days as well.

[@cinemaipswich4636]

My mother used a Kodak Box Brownie (1960's) to capture my brothers and sisters and I, perched in the low branches of a huge tree. Focus, and exposure are perfect, and the dappled light from the canopy creates a wonderful effect. It puts my efforts to shame.

[@arnarn4112]

I'm so glad I found your channel. I've been doing this hobby since the early days of digital photography and this kind of no-nonsense and to the point take on photography is something that was more prevalent in the early days, but just about non-existent these days.The way that you provide tons of information in a coherent way is fantastic. Thank you.

[@simon_dentremont]

Arn, I’m working on a video course for wildlife photography. Can I use your comment in promotional material, with attribution?

[@arnarn4112]

@@simon_dentremont Sure yoy can - if it isn't too late. I just saw this, for some reason KZbin doesn't doesn't notify me about comments.

[@HoloDaWisewolf]

Discovered your channel yestersay, and your videos are such a blessing. I don't shoot wildlife, but I started photography few months ago and your videos are really helpful. I think that the sheer amount of comments you get under each videos tells a lot. Thank you!

[@timatwater8247]

Good matter of fact delivery, great points, and thanks for keeping most of your videos under 15 minutes without the usual verbal overkill.

[@simon_dentremont]

I appreciate that!

[@kyler_irl]

My photography quality went up 10x after learning how to properly approach ISO from your previous video. Thank you

[@simon_dentremont]

Great to hear!

[@paylnyles]

Loved the video, I have a Lumix S1 with their 24 to 105mm and 2 filters after 3 years. I'm 64 and learned all my skills with a Zenth-E 52 years ago.

[@marys53]

Thank you, Simon, another great video! I have already used several of your “tips and tricks” and can honestly say…… they have truly helped me to feel more prepared and confident in my photography journey. I’m already looking forward to next Monday’s video. Be well and happy shooting.

[@simon_dentremont]

Mary, I’m working on a video course for wildlife photography. Can I use your comment in promotional material, with attribution?

[@marys53]

@@simon_dentremont Of course, happy to help.

[@MA-no8tz]

Everything you said were true. When I started, I wasted so much money buying cheap filters that actually had negative effect on my photos. I love the "The real photographers shot in manual" and "The real photographers always use ISO 100". I was told both of these in the past. Another great video, many thanks Simon.

[@beatryff2956]

Hello Simon, I really appreciated your video series. When I migrated from film to digital I watched so many videos from different presenters and while some of them were at the beginning more about photography, I noticed how many started to become more and more product reviewers of cameras, lenses and related products and it made me feel like I’m missing out on upgrading to the latest and greatest. So, a big thank you to you as it brings me back to techniques and how to do things. I’m brings smiles back to my face when I explore different techniques, even when I fail at it the first times. I really appreciate your series of videos!!! Beat

[@banginghats2]

I'm not actually a beginner, I just feel like one when I see your amazing pictures.

[@simon_dentremont]

Too kind!

[@robertbrown5052]

Wow Simon- an honest- fact based video full of the really needed subjects for beginners, intermediates and even us old dogs (started with a view camera 55 years ago!). There need to be more info videos like this! And I love the bit on the etch-a-sketch! Will have to dig mine out and give it a go!!

[@simon_dentremont]

You may need an adapter for the etch a sketch…

[@simon_dentremont]

Robert, I’m working on a video course for wildlife photography. Can I use your comment in promotional material, with attribution?

[@nassimabed]

Another reason the first myth is a big myth is that newer more advanced cameras offer many very specialized features that may never be used at all by most photographers or rarely at all. For example, the really fast frames per second on a Nikon D500 - well, if you shoot landscape and still products then you have no use for that feature and yet you pay for it by picking the "pro" camera. Perhaps the single most important difference between one camera body and another that will always make a difference for any and all kinds of photography would be the sensor: Can't compare the exposure latitude on the old D70 to that on the D810 (they came 12 years apart). But often the same manufacturer will put the exact same sensor on two or more camera bodies, leaving you with options and price differences so you won't need to compromise on the sensor.

[@yomismo1945]

Very honest and trustworthy advice as usual. Tyvm mr d'Entremont!

[@goodearthrecordings1989]

Your channel has been the best help I've found on KZbin hands down! I already had a Nikon L820 bridge camera with a surprisingly good telephoto on it but wanted to get a DSLR. I ended up getting a used basic Canon 70D kit in new condition with 1 battery, SD card, charger, USB cable, Canon camera bag, and a Canon EF-S 10-18mm IS STM Ultra wide lens. The camera body had a shutter count of just over 1,600. Bonus, even if not my favorite lens, very good for video though. Now I have found a Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens which is a step in the right direction for what I shoot and again, like new with hood and caps at a bargain price. For now the Nikon L820 superzoom will get used along with my Canon until I can afford or find a bargin on a great telephoto lens. I'm happy with what I have and learning.

[@zacharyf.9936]

I am so glad I found your videos. You are an amazing teacher and photography mentor and your work and examples speak for themselves. Keep up the great work please!

[@sandersassen]

I'm sitting here looking at my 2013 model DSLR, a camera I've tried to replace many times, but thus far have failed to find a good successor for. I did buy a few new lenses over the years though, further increasing the usability and versatility of my old camera. In the end it all comes down to which tools you prefer to use and that which give you the results you're looking for, buying the latest and greatest, or the most expensive camera gear, isn't the shortcut many people think it is.

[@SergioMartinez-om4dm]

My name is Sergio Martinez I’m a beginner, non professional nature and wild life photographer living in Southern California. I’m so grateful I found your videos! I can’t find words to describe how good your videos are compared to others who just give you vague information. Your videos are clear, comprehensive and pleasing to view.

[@SergioMartinez-om4dm]

Watching your videos makes me feel like I should be paying you for all the valuable information.

[@simon_dentremont]

I’m working on a wildlife photography course with even more information and tips. You can pay me then!

[@SW-Video]

Great advice! I've been shooting in aperture priority but getting too many blurred photos so I decided to try shutter priority and limit the ISO to 6400 on this particular camera. I think I'm getting more usable photos this way. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

[@bmeclipse]

Totally agree. I got caught up in low ISO for the longest time and kept getting frustrated. It wasn’t until I ditched worrying about ISO that my images got way better. ISO control is probably the number one thing I read people complaining about in my FB photography groups and it boggles my mind. When I stopped worrying about ISO, things got better. Thank you for your tips!

[@t3do1989]

I love your videos, Simon! Thank you so much!

[@rickt.8866]

Simon, your a wonderful photographer and teacher. I am following my passion and dreams of being a professional photographer at age 52. My wife and soulmate has been an huge part as she fully supports me. That’s what true soulmates do.

[@jBartolo]

Great video and I love your honest approach regarding GAS (Gear acquisition Syndrome), so many KZbinrs post simply to push purchasing more equipment so they get affiliated marketing dollars. I love your presentation also, keep up the great work. I enjoy your content.

[@simon_dentremont]

Much appreciated!

[@tomkirkemo5241]

I shoot in manual when I'm in a studio and have cotroll of the ligth...when I'm out and about I shoot in A or TV mode (yes I have Canon cameras) and auto ISO. And my favorite all-around lens is the Sigma 24-105 Art. For portraits it's the Canon 85 F 1,8

[@paulhudson117]

Your video is spot on in regarding to myths. My only regret is that you were not doing videos then. I have bought a few pieces of equipment that I used a couple of times and realized that I didn't need it, or it was a piece of junk. Too many people rush out to buy more equipment like me and find out that it didn't work. A better camera doesn't make someone a better photographer. I have a Canon t7 and when it came to buying another camera, I bought the same thing. My favorite lens is my Sigma 150 - 600 mm C lens. Thank you once again for making a quality video and one that makes sense.

[@rogermaioli]

I've seen all of your videos, and this is one of my favorite so far. I am a bird photographer just by hobby, and a literature professor by trade; I accordingly spend a lot of time thinking about how to educate audiences and explain things with clarity in an inviting register. You have all of it down to a science -- probably from your own experience in public service. This channel is a treat!

[@simon_dentremont]

Very kind!

[@rogermaioli]

By the way, did you see that Jan Wegener has also posted a new video on this exact topic (the dangers of low ISO)? Love the two videos!

[@TimFurman123]

This is so helpful. I use my R6 with the RF 70-200 F4 almost all the time at work; it does everything well-enough for almost-always poorly lit event photography that I cover for my day job. If someone hires me to shoot a wedding, I rent something even more capable. I'm an old person, and Canon's FV mode has helped me understand the exposure triangle like I never did before, so I view myself as still growing into this ridiculously amazing camera. That being said, in my non-work life, I walk around with an old weather-sealed Olympus with the M.Zuika 24-140 and do street photography in all kinds rain, sleet, snow, or whatever and I've got a decades-long visual record of the best and worst times of my life.

[@esrAsnataS]

EF 100mm F2.8 Macro, great lens.

[@simon_dentremont]

I’ve been considering getting a 100mm macro myself, RF or maybe even EF.

[@Skene_O]

Another honest and informative vid Simon. I like how you don't fluff around and get to the point. I have a canon R6 and love my 24-105 F4 L lens. i will never part with it.

[@RJ-nk9qz]

Especially like that you pointed out the ability to get a great shot not only with high ISO, but on an 8 year old crop sensor camera. Another example of it not being the equipment, but the photographer. Solid, no-nonsense content as usual. You're truly the best. Thanks. PS: Lens. All time favorite: 50mm 1.8 all the way. :)

[@antondymkovych6150]

I always get valuable, precious advice from this channel. Thank you so much Simon!

[@simon_dentremont]

Happy to hear that!

[@giffyfaces]

I have watched nearly all your videos and my inspiration to carry on is solely based on the confirmation that I know I can be a good photographer and absorbing all the information you and others provide is good info but only to help guide the process of discovery. For instance learning about depth of field and taking multiple photos of the same image in different f numbers and exposure and focusing lengths to get the sharpest images. After browsing my photos I discovered what you mentioned in another video about compensation of exposure that doesn't change when certain conditions arise and it was a double whammy there is my sharp image at f9 50shutter speed and also the 5 images just before all have the same exposure value .. it truly is like the light switch going on in your head. Heard about it from you and discovered it myself and then heard about the other discovery watching another of your videos. My biggest problem at the moment is visualisation of the hyperfocal distance and understanding the circle of confusion.. thank you Simon for your truly great well thought out and well created videos. 👍

[@prof3ssorghana]

i couldnt be more than happy and glad you made this video. You Monsieur d'Etremont are definitely a blessing to the Worlds photography community

[@daviddesrosiers1946]

I'm so sorry glad I found your channel. I was learning photography from age 10 to 17. I've just dove back into the hobby as I'm just turning 53. When I put the camera down I had an AE-1. I just bought a used Nikon Z6 with the 24-70. I've been having a ball. Anyway, love your content and its presentation. Thanks.

[@AndreasKungl]

It is very reassuring to hear from an established professional that certain rules are not rules. Unfortunately and oftentimes, where creativity and technology meet, there are hordes of people who are simply preaching dogma. That is most of the time based on a mixture of lazyness of thought and protection of the in-crowd hermetic exclusivity. Therefore, it is most refreshing to listen to you, Simon. Not only is your presentation immaculate (and again: thanks for leaving out the inspirational corporate stock audio...), but your teachings are inspirational in themselves. It took me four of your videos to reconsider my whole process of shooting stills and filming videos. As far as I can see now, these changes will stick, as they give me either similar results in worse conditions or better results in the original ones. I wish for you to get all the success that you surely deserve.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks Andreas! Very kind.

[@yosaifcohain821]

thank you for sharing another fine tutorial. Another myth about learning photography is the need to study for a BFA in photography. Tutorials like yours and wonderful internet sharing is so much better. Masters like you allow the classroom the freedom of learning to see and discover with great advice and experience that is gold. .

[@photom3]

Probably the most no nonsense advice I’ve heard in quite awhile

[@hum2020]

My first camera was totally manual ive learned to use varying degrees of automation. Its wonderful i recommend use as much automation as you can.

[@SBinVancouver]

A corollary to the myth that "every photo needs Photoshop[ping]", is the brag that "it looks like that right out of the camera!". With JPG output, the photographer either explicitly told their camera how to process the photo, or left the decisions with the camera's settings ("landscape mode"...). With RAW, those initial decisions end up being made with the computer's software.

[@simon_dentremont]

Righto. People tell me all the time…my RAWs look flat and dull compared ro the camera LCD, not realizing that the LCD shows a camera-pumped-up jpeg of the RAW, with sharpness, saturation etc added.

[@scillyautomatic]

3:19 "...on an Etch-A-Sketch..." 🤣

[@kevinwhite6176]

I'm a really casual hobbyist photographer who hasn't been doing a lot of photography again until very recently and found your account. This is really helpful stuff. I have a DSLR I used to use and the manual comment is spot on. It's fun to actually set up the settings just right for something, like if it's a studio shot or something. On the other hand, I'm trying to take pictures, not twiddle my camera. If I want to twiddle, I could always twiddle in postprocessing...

[@sylvia2692]

Great presentation Simon ~ lots of good tips, thank you. My go to lens is: AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR - my other fav lens AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED

[@andreasrochow5170]

Very nice getting your advice. Your videos are wonderful and incomparable!

[@nadenebrewer9853]

I shoot concerts…you get over the low ISO grind really quick in that scenario. Love your vids, great advice

[@simon_dentremont]

That’s a super tough environment.

[@cdmikelis]

2:50 ... I once tested my camera body against more modern and capable one. There was some image quality improvement, lower noise, higher ISO and there was mild AF improvement. With some lenses AF was exactly the same. It was odd to me, so I rent a top of the line lens and used that on my old body. I realised that I've got more image quality improvement than with new body with old lens. Also, AF was uncomparable better. Image with better lens was so much more defined that I could get better image with one f-stop higher ISO than with old lens. So effectively new lens improved all aspect of my photography, and make better images than new body with old lens would, for less money.

[@Homobikerus]

Reading the hood I'd say in one particular case having it on actually led to me scratching the front element. I'm talking about sel200600g. It was necessary for me to have it on but as I was putting the cover back on I always had to reach deep into the hood. Mistakenly I assumed that given the narrow spacing it is nearly impossible to misplace the cover. I was wrong. Got two small scratches from the moving elements of the cover when was trying to carelessly put it on. Luckily they don't affect picture whatsoever but still. And one more thing: imo, it is actually helpful for the beginners to learn manual mode. Not just for the sake of it but with actual understanding of what and why one's doing. My first compact camera 20 years ago for some reason had really poor auto modes but thankfully was able to deliver decent results in "M". And after many years I got grateful for that, since it was a very important practice (in combination with manual that provided short description of how shutter speed and "f" work that was my own personal photo school).

[@thatcherfreeman]

One more aspect of the rule of thirds is that it encourages you to not make a "just slightly off-center" composition, which looks like a mistake. It's basically a compromise between that and the "too close to the edge" composition. This is important because it emphasizes the skill that when you break a rule, make sure it looks intentional. If your horizon is off by 2 degrees, it's a mistake, but if it's off by 30 degrees then it's a stylistic choice. Honestly when shooting I just use the center point guideline because it's really helpful when you do want a centered, symmetrical composition. For off-center compositions, you can just look at the frame and see how it feels, no thirds guidelines needed!

[@simon_dentremont]

righto!

[@GrAnDmAMiTtEnSS]

As a beginner these are all super helpful and reassuring. I've been watching all your videos now!

[@jcam783]

Such great advice , something I wished I'd heard when I first started . Thank you for sharing .

[@perkelix]

Myth 1) Yes, a good lens is the key. However, I wouldn't outright dismiss the camera claim e.g. the jump from pocket camera to SLR or mirrorless is significant. How this could be rephrased: as long as you have a decent SLR or mirrorless (anything made within the last 15 years or so should do), you're good to go, but DO pick an appropriate lens for your photography style to go with that. Myth 3) I always tell people to start with a SLR or mirrorless and the kit lens. Once you notice the limitations of the kit lens, attend photography club meetups and ask to try different lenses or accesories with your camera. People tend to gladly help you select your next gear.

[@simon_dentremont]

Agree!

[@jasonchetwynd]

You videos are refreshing and offer great insight for the new and experienced photographer. Please keep us posted for your upcoming workshops!

[@passionandcommonsense]

You really should do a series of videos on editing in Lightroom. Most of us can’t make head or tail of it. The distinction between brightness and exposure and whites… that alone is enough to drive me mad. Then there is confusion between vibrancy and brilliance; and between black point and contrast; and between definition and sharpness!! 🥴

[@robhowarth77]

Something else which I learned from my photography teacher; NEVER be dictated to by paper or film aspect ratios when composing your picture .

[@tonyfluertynaturephotograp5272]

My advice to beginners is learn the rules, then when you understand them, learn how to break them.

[@simon_dentremont]

Agree!

[@isaacrobedeau2431]

I'm a chef getting into photography. As a chef I can tell you that rule applies to food too.

[@StephenJoines]

Its good to see some good advice Simon. I am forever telling a friend to stop doing certain things as they are myths, he never listens and then spends hours in post trying to get a half decent image. I have sent him a link to this and hopefully will now listen to me! - Stay Safe.

[@CarnivoreKipp]

We are lucky that you share advice with us.

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Have to agree with you, once I started to raise my ISO I got great images of Hummingbirds.

[@Casi5000]

Regarding the rule of thirds, I'd add: If you are a beginner, just stick to it without further thinking. You have enough other problems to think about and sticking to the rule will improve a lot of your photos. But once you're a better photographer and more comfortable with the camera and composition, think about what Simon says. The rule of thirds is not a law and breaking the rule is not only allowed, but sometimes needed.

[@danderth]

Are you kidding me?! I just bought a used D500 when I could've bought an Etch-A-Sketch?! Oh well, live and learn. Honestly, I do appreciate your tips.

[@RonaldBrown59]

You make some very good points here, and most of this advice comes from people talk about photography more than actually do it. Thanks for sharing Simon.

[@mariosnicolaou8770]

Excellent no nonsense video. Outstanding. Thank you :)

[@rocketmanab]

"I could put this lens on an Etch a Sketch...." lol that cracked me up 😅

[@simon_dentremont]

I forgot to mention that the adapters are on sale…

[@9Mtikcus]

You tube sent me your way, I enjoyed the video. As a portrait photographer (mostly in a studio) I get to control the light, so can normally shoot at the base ISO. However I 100% agree that it is better to get it right in camera than try and push the files afterwards (although most modern cameras can be pushed pretty far in post, so a stop or 2 under exposed is not the end of the world). As for filters... I have mixed feelings about this it really depends on where you are shooting. firstly, if you are putting a protection or UV filter on a lens, make sure it is a good quality one. You spend $1000 on a lens then put a $10 filter in front of it, makes no sense, but there are occasions when i like having a filter, if I am shooting somewhere where wind is blowing sand or grit around I'd rather it scratched a filter than the front element (some petal hoods offer next to no protection) and in conditions that are grimy or dirty, is easier to clean a filter sometimes with a shirt etc when you can't grab a lens wipe. But it is not a day one purchase. And where to invest the money.... Camera, or lens, I'd say a good lens will last you many years if you treat it well but for certain genres even that is not absolutely needed, I took a few photos on a portrait shoot with a 2nd crop camera that was not a pro body, I was testing a $100 7artisan portrait lens (55mm F/1.4, manual focus if i remember). I was impressed with the photos from this lens, i sent to the client with the other photos, they didn't ask what camera and lens was used, but some of the photos used with what would have cost someone just $300 for the camera used and lens new, were included in their professional portfolio. One thing that is important is a good photographer learns and masters their gear whatever it is, but a good photographer can take good photos with almost any equipment (wildlife probably an exception as you need a telephoto lens) people need to obsess less over camera specs and how sharp a lens is and ask what story they want to tell with their photographs

[@mattdumais6465]

Great point about overcoming the fear of high ISO especially with newer cameras. I’m learning to be fearless with ISO to get the shot I want and not afraid of ISO 12800 or even 25600 when freezing fast action or in low light. Some day I plan to get a long fast lens but for now with my cheap lens I’ll get the shot knowing back on the computer I will still be impressed with how well my camera works.

[@mpw621]

You can get great not expensive 'fast vintage lens with adapters for your camera

[@ifimar7277]

Thank you for being honest..You are being very very helpful..I am tited of hearing and seeing success stories and the photograpger telling us half or even less than the true information we need in order to get a good shot .. They underestimate our intelligence and the love for what we are doing and struggling for. Bravo.

[@donaldgenenavarro]

You are a great educator. I am new to wildlife photography. I bought a state parks pass this year so that I can dive into this genre while utilizing your shared experience.

[@andychandler3992]

Last myth: I'm learning that. A friend of mine who is teaching me, has stated she never goes below 200, and I'm starting to catch on.

[@kenthhagstrom]

This is a really good video for many who are interested in photography, so many misconceptions that you explain so well! Your'e the true sound of a professional!

[@phila2999]

agree for all things listed ! (should learn that when you have your first camera !)

[@kainatticus]

Wow you've got so many beautiful photos, well done, i'm only learning so they're very inspiring!

[@champtech8755]

Glad I found this an amazing pro photographer!

[@TheStarseedShaman]

I wish I could spend a weekend with you out in the field! Youre like the father of Photography that I never had! 😂😂😂 Much love and thank you for your wisdom of the craft!

[@alainforcione7542]

On a Etch-a-Sketch... 🤣😂. That drives it in! 😉 Great points of vues and advices, again. Thanks!

[@evanfleck9360]

Another great video. I think the auto ISO is my favourite feature.

[@ardscorner]

These type of videos can save someone a lot of time and frustration. As always presented in your very informative but easy to understand way which is great for both newer photographers and those who are more experienced. Can I say your astro photography is very impressive.....just off to search your videos to see if you have made any about it. Thanks as always for sharing your knowledge.

[@Blah-blah-sure]

As someone just getting into photography. Thank you for the education

[@JasonLorette]

Great video Simon...and completely agree with all of it!

[@JordanCait]

Simon, thank you for another excellent video!

[@neilbest7696]

Very much enjoying your content Simon. Thanks.

[@jbruner4263]

Great info! I've taken your advice and started shooting at higher ISO and noticed a huge difference. Also, thanks for the heads up about the fake accounts, I've already received two notifications of free gifts.

[@capntimber7982]

I use auto iso with a set limit most of the time. Depends on the camera. I’ve used manual aperture and ss for so long I don’t know if I remember how to set for priority or auto modes anymore, not that I’d be opposed to it 😊

[@tradewisetv2801]

Great content! I've definitely learned a couple of these the hard way, lol. I think the greatest point you made was to do with ISO. It used to be so laborious choosing which component to adjust on the fly, now I shoot (handheld) in Auto ISO 6400 most of the time, depending on the lens and lighting. As my environment changes, I'll tweak aperture or SS and I'm ready to shoot. I can see shooting in a priority mode if you know what you're going to be shooting, but I often don't, so taking ISO out of the triangle makes my life much more satisfying.

[@johnpettit3700]

Love these tips. Don't feel guilty using auto now and then.

[@MJDreams]

Good tips. I should invest more in lens (ex. 100-400 Leica instead of 100-300mm), but in the other hand when I hear stories about assaults from local photographers (Brazil) I've mixed feelings about carrying more expensive gear in my place of living. But for now, it's enough. I need to learn about all the limitation first and then if needed I will upgrade it someday.

[@NeilRoy]

Very nice advice, thanks. My camera isn't quite that expensive, so, no extra lenses on it. It's a nice little Canon PowerShot SX500 IS. I grabbed it for the 30X optical zoom. Not exactly professional, but a great little camera for what it does with Av, Tv and Manual modes.

[@stuartsims9210]

Some brilliant advice. Thank you.

[@demiqshots]

I had the same thing with high ISO, trying to keep it at 100 all the time, now I do a lot of night street photography and I really couldn't care if my ISO was too high, I obviously try to keep it low but if all the other settings are at their most light grabbing settings without blur then ISO is free to do what it wants, using auto ISO has made me better IMO and I kind of like the noise now!

[@staceyaustin6905]

Thank you! I love watching your videos as I’m a beginner doing bird photography.

[@TFM3234]

I bought the 600mm f4 g used. This lens is heavy but I love the hell out of it. I got my best eagle shot with it.