The Point of My Photography - Macro Photography with Nikon D850

[@daelpixphotography]

You're the most joyful photographer I watch. Thank you Courtney for all your wonderful videos and your gorgeous photos.

[@DominikMarczuk]

Ha, so true. I recently stopped posting on Instagram and simply carried on with photographing what I like, the way I like. Social media did kill my enjoyment of photography, to the point where I spent a total of around 8 hours hiking in beautiful forests and took exactly one picture. A mediocre one at that. As for staying in the forest after dark, I actually do that sometimes. I use two LED lights that I can set up any way I need and I photograph mushrooms in the dark. The images turn out really magical, in a way you can't achieve during the day.

[@timpullen9202]

Courtney. I just sold that lens to MPB. I'd like to think it is the one you now have, and I can finally see it put to good use.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Oh my goodness, it could be haha! It is already a valued part of my camera bag :)

[@keithguppy]

I love macro photography, getting home and noticing a tiny bug on the mushrooms you hadn’t spotted on location, it’s the gift that keeps on giving lol. Beautiful photos.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Absolutely, a nice surprise when you get home and look at the images! I don't realise how many bugs are roaming around until I review video footage and realise they're crawling all over me ha.

[@127TROOP]

I just realised what I love about your macro work, it’s not a study in technical close up, it’s that each and every image is art, beautiful simple art. They look like watercolours at times. And all done with the nature in front of you….stunning work….

[@GeraldThomasphotojunkie]

Yea!!! I’ve missed you!! 🙌🏾 I just have to tell you that I get so much inspiration from your videos.

[@GeorgeLoch]

There is so much whimsy in these mushroom macros. It's like you have caught faries in the middle of a dance. Love it.

[@jimadams6159]

Great to see a new video. The words and thoughts shared are very wise. It's interesting how we often doubt our own abilities despite receiving praise from others. The photos you shared are beautiful and inspiring. Thank you.

[@RogerAVHansen]

I can so relate to feeling some kind of pressure when taking photos. Has stopped me from bringing my camera several times, even stopped me from going out. Need to find the pleasure in just finding a good composition and taking the photo 😊

[@thomastuorto9929]

For me I say hog wash to pressure the pressure. Shoot for yourself & no-one else. I will shoot anything. I go out to shoot & very rarely come home without a photo. But being just a hobby enthusiast, = no pressure. Some days are better than others including in no particular order, the quality of light, the subjects that cross my path & my judgement or ability & sometimes lazy style of shooting. Somedays I put the photos on the computer & (rarely) delete the whole folder. Some days I'm pleasantly surprised & somedays I'm smiling because I'm positive I have a great photo when pushing the shutter. And I know by seeing others work that I have a long, long, long way to go. But am always smiling without any doubt because being out in nature is always a great day & the photos are just a plus. Don't ever be afraid of failing because it is just a step in the art of getting better. Happy shooting.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

I think it's a good idea to go out without a camera and focus on what you see/experience. You do worry less about taking images and I find I always come away with inspiration of some kind. On the days my camera comes out with me, I try to forget it's even in my bag so I don't feel the need to 'perform' until I've found something that I want to photograph. The pressure can really ruin creativity, so when I catch myself worrying about getting a photo I have a little chat with myself haha.

[@dougjohnson4572]

Happy to see another production. Your thoughts on Why are inspiring.

[@rmetzger7368]

Ah, she's back! It's because of you, and Thomas Heaton, I've gone back to making pictures. After watching you shoot macro, fungi, I've drifted that way too. Thanks for the inspiration. And, I see the dance moves are alive and well in 2024! Can't wait to see what you put in front of your lens next. Great job Courtney! We continue to watch over your shoulder from Port Angeles, WA., USA! Take care!

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Glad to hear you've dived into fungi photography too! You don't realise how fun it is until you try it ha. Thanks and take care too :)

[@pracquet]

Beautifully explained. Now I know why I like photography. Thank you.

[@Brock_in_the_North]

I'm looking forward to picking up my new Nikon Z MC 150 this week after saving up for a while. Money well spent and get back into the Macro game. I've not shot macro for a few years but i used to shoot mostly butterflies but capture them in such a way t woukd demonstrate the landscape too Side note i used to have the sigma 105 and its brilliant

[@joaoysphotography]

Is a very good question and not always easy to answer, in my case, is a life time passion to create and be creative through photography, and how knows one day a dream come true, if not the last part, at least I'll never give up and keep up my unconditional passion for photography alive :)

[@willfoster7]

Courtney, you create such clever titles for your images...a most welcome breath of fresh air😊

[@timrosenburgh8597]

Great to see you back Courtney. I wouldn't beat yourself up about your macro photography as like everyone who watches your channel we think they are really good. As you say it's practice. Really nice image's. Look forward to seeing your next video.

[@jasoneldridgephotography]

Thank you sharing your hardships behind the lens as well as your success. I know I’ve encountered the same issue as I’m sure many others have as well. I love your macro work and it has inspired me to want to dig out my old Macro Lens! Thanks for sharing!

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thanks Jason! I'm glad I gave macro another try as I'm actually enjoying it quite a lot, not something I would have predicted ha. Take care.

[@michaelt7320]

Thank you for a very thoughtful and thought provoking video. At a personal level, I walk the hills and mountains and so landscape photography seems to come naturally, partly to express what I feel about the scenes in front of me, and partly to give me some memories when the day comes that I can no longer walk the mountains. Ultimately though, any kind of photography is about pleasing / expressing yourself. If others like what you do, it's a bonus. If they don't, all preferences are subjective any way.

[@johnd5244]

Stunning images Courtney! 😍 I got myself the Nikkor 105mm mc F/2.8 VR S lens for use with my Z6II and Zf.

[@rasmus_mattsson]

The "New lens Wiggle" 😆 I SO know that feeling! 😀 Nice video and a very nice way to present the sponsor, It actually made me check them out and I'll consider using them.

[@busmahrepus]

It's a great reminder

[@mikeg2916]

For years I took pictures but never showed them to anyone for fear of negative criticism. I never thought they were good enough. Last year I took a couple of pictures that I thought were okay and finally shared them with others. It was a good feeling to hear someone say this is a nice picture and I now can accept constructive criticism since it will improve my photography. I think macro photography helps you slow down since you are trying to find things that most people would walk by. I need to have the mindset to be in the present and not think about things at home. I bought the Art of Noticing book, to help me. I heard your interview on Photography Connections and it was very good. I think of photography as therapy through depression. Keep up the very insightful videos. It's not about technique and equipment, it's more about enjoying yourself. ❤

[@anthonyphotoman]

I always love your videos, Courtney. You visit some awsome locations, you are so down to earth and fun to watch and your photography is amazing. So, two questions; Have you ever been caught doing your dance and do you give a s++t? LOL x

[@dannymacamaturephotographe6352]

Outstanding video Courtney my fav images was study 3 loved it Danny.

[@kenrees8726]

I love your dancing it shows a free spirit

[@sophietucker1255]

I've always thought of myself as being creative and have several outlets for that. Photography has been my longest creative outlet, I started in 1970, with writing, woodworking and baking as several of the newest. I'm now 71 yrs old and for the most part don't care if people like my images or not. I just like being out there and enjoying the scenery and the process of making images. I really enjoy showing people how my older film cameras work and the mystery of not knowing what will turn out as being part of the fun. I've done several commercial shoots over the yrs but never enjoyed the process. The images were okay and most people liked them but I didn't enjoy doing it. So I've managed to keep my photography as a hobby or sorts. I try to make better images and to grow and even try and emulate some of the images from the past and even newer image makers. I've worried about not having a personal style but have managed to put that worry to bed. I take images I like and let others worry about style or a signature look.

[@oneeyedphotographer]

I think EX in Sigma means "compatible with extender" aka teleconverter. You should try it. 70 years ago, I was the little boy who asked, "Why?" "What if...?" I still do. Why do photographers worship the Rule of Thirds? What happens if I put the subject looking out of frame? What if I put my camera in unusual places?

[@jaybradley9083]

The next best thing to getting out with my camera is seeing the latest video from you. Excellent photos, and food for thought as to the "why" of photography.

[@terryosborn]

Great to see you again Courtney, love your videos, thank you for being you, stay just as you are.

[@PLAYmoreUK]

Great video Courtney - love your channel.

[@georgemason2472]

While I live in Photography Heaven, ie Pacific Northwest, I'm glad to see you promote Macro photography. I love the order I see in even the smallest things and Macro is a form of photography that can be practiced and enjoyed in locations that otherwise lack interest. Your beautiful shots are inspirational to all photographers.

[@robertdavis1255]

Thanks Courtney for another interesting video.... great to see you back again with a great presentation & comments & results.... cheers from Australia 🦘🦘😊

[@RobtJMooreII]

I'd forgotten how much I always enjoy your videos, and I never realized you were such a funky dancer!

[@peterrobinson5438]

Lovely content as always, keep up the passion

[@peterholmlund9454]

I have been in a creative rut for years, just picked up my camera but have a hard time getting out there (weather has been abysmal in Finland too). Maybe I need to start with some dancing 😂 Great images and another food for thought video, thank you!!!

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

I had to update my macro lens for the same reason, focus stacking. My old macro would need carbon dating to determine its age, but the Z cameras won't autofocus it. I kept the old lens to use on my older film cameras because it does have an aperture ring and it makes only the third F mount lens with an aperture ring I can use on them. But now I have discovered lens adaptors to use old screw mount lenses, etc.

[@daveinportland]

I’m so glad to see a new video from you. I can’t wait until I have a break to delve into it. Thanks you and God bless you/yours.

[@davidskinner274]

Hi Courtney. You'll love your Sigma 105 as Ido

[@martinswift6777]

Bliss. At last another breath-of-fresh-air video with some damn fine photos too. Many thanks for keeping the human perspective firmly in your photography.

[@mylucksmiles]

I for got to add using a remote when doing the fungi does make life easier

[@derekhurst9]

I adore your channel, Courtney. Yes, I used the word adore. Your playful energy is an approach I’m trying to adapt in photography, and life. Thank you.

[@ravenfallsphotography6254]

Holy macro, Courtney! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist.) Those are great images.

[@klartext2225]

Hey Courtney! Love to see that you have taken the exact same route with your camera choice. After working with a NIKON D 750 since 2015 I have bought a D 850 last year. Because I do not want to change to mirrorless EVER! The D 850 is kind of the Rolls Royce in its class and gives me all I want, together with NIKON lenses (and one TAMRON Zoom). Ahh, I love the "CLICK!" and will never switch to a processed image in my viewfinder.

[@RichardFraser-y9t]

Thank you MPB.

[@turabakancsoriginal]

Great and deep thoughts. I am also looking for answers to these questions! Welcome from Hungary :)

[@denisesavage2382]

Wow the macro images were stunning! I love what you spotted and photographed. I do also appreciate the Courtney you bring to the space. It continues to be fun and playful. So so important in this world of ours.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thank you very much, I appreciate it your kind comment :)

[@alanbravofotografo]

Splendid work my friend, great vídeo

[@roc7035]

Thanks for another nice video.

[@mylucksmiles]

I like macro I use the z105 but Marco can be as tricky as birds in flight if not harder. The flowers in the wind or breeze. Have you thought of doing light photography of mushrooms and even waterfalls. It’s challenging , capturing the fine art look is my final goal. Once I have the world is my limit. Cheers and nice to see you back .happy new year .

[@5seadog]

Courtney, your videos have encouraged me to do more macro photography, Right before Christmas I got the Canon 100mm macro. This past weekend I was able to use it at the orchid show at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. My results were not as good as yours--I need much more practice, but your work has challenged me. Thanks for sharing your talent and enthusiasm.

[@steve.shilling]

Your macro shots are amazing. For my 50th just under 6 years ago my wife and kids bought me a Sony H400 bridge camera, I'd been using my phone before that, and I fell in love with photography, after a while I began feeling drawn towards macro, I got some magnifying filters and began taking photos in my garden, I was surprised at how much there is to photograph in such a small area. I had some personal issues for the last 2 years and my photography took a back seat. I'm now back and your macro photography is inspiring me to get out and take macro shots again. I have more capable equipment than I did 5 years ago. Thank you.

[@CourtneyVictoria]

When you start to notice the smaller landscapes it really opens up another world. There is so much to photograph! I'm glad to hear you're able to pick your camera back up and do photography again :)

[@alanthornton3530]

Macro photography is amazing there's a whole world of subjects going on below our feet (normal viewpoint), I love the images you've taken thank you for sharing them! I really enjoyed the new lens dance you've certainly got a good sense of humour, it makes me laugh :) Why is an interesting question, I think if something inspires you to be creative that's the answer after all Photography is an art form.

[@seanmangan2769]

Such a pleasant video 😊

[@AcaciaFikeNelson]

There is something very peaceful about your fungi macro photography. They are so lovely. It honestly makes me feel like I'm in a fairytale. As always, your videos are a joy to watch! Have a lovely day! 😀📸

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Thank you Acacia! I'm sad there aren't as many of them about anymore, but they really are a little world of their own!

[@ian9495]

Yet another amazing video 😊

[@Peter_Reed_Photography]

For future, buy a Buff necktube to replace the scarf. You can get merino wool ones which are nice and warm.

[@johnanthonycolley3803]

Hi Courtney Great to see you back in the Forest once again. You have produced some very impressive images of Mushrooms & other Fungi.. Don't loose faith. You are exceptional Videographer & Photographer.. ( Might I suggest) if our not already doing so, you really should be selling your images. ( Companies such as " Photo4me " will print and frame your images for you ) May God continue to Bless you. Regards John ..

[@therightfoot81]

Great video Courtney and excellent macro shots.

[@franmol01]

the sigma 105mm macro is a great lens... the shots and vlog were good as usual.... but the dancing?? 😁😁

[@alanhall5648]

It’s always a pleasure to watch your videos

[@Lightpoetry.]

Hello Courtney! Just discovered your channel and your work, and wanted to say : LOVE it!! 🎥🌳😍So soothing to wander around with you in the woods, and funny, and oh, the pics are 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼 Thank you for being you, and thank you for bringing this into the World. It is very interesting to see your process...I am delighted to have so many episodes to catch on, yeeeee!!!🤪

[@jonkers2007]

Another escellent video. Thgank you Courtney. The seven ‘whys’ is an interesting approach.

[@lonewolfphotography01]

I have the sigma 105 for my Canon 90D , it's a fantastic macro lens , I wouldn't be without it . Wonderful video again and marvellous photographs. Thank you..

[@margot6041]

Wonderful video about the joy of finding things in nature.

[@MJCreative-Bleu96]

I love Macro Photography! I am using my phone right now, however, I am looking to buy a DLSR camera and a macro lens. It will happen in 2024! Keep up the good work and I enjoy watching your process and insight on why and how you take your shots. Love It!

[@CourtneyVictoria]

Some of the macro features on phones are actually quite good! My current phone doesn't have the option unfortunately, but I have found myself searching the menu for it just in case I've missed it somewhere when I'm out on a walk ha. Thanks!

[@jpdj2715]

Before you buy an AF macro lens, I'd argue for you to buy a "nodal slide". You already have an Arca-compatible L-bracket and tripod head quick release. A nodal slide goes between these two. You need one that has a (teethed) rack rail and a knob to ride the camera fore and aft relative to the tripod's mount point. This gives you manual focus shift shooting. This allows fine and controlled camera movement, where you never change the focal length [1] and never change exposure. Stacking the frames will be very easy that way. Also, if you ever migrate to the Z system, you get access to the Z 105/2.8S macro lens that is better than anything available on the F-mount, so if you don't buy an additional lens, you don't have to depreciate an F mount macro in this scenario. And, the nodal slide can help you shoot multi shot panorama images (single row). [1] when you focus closer by than infinity, the lens moves away from the sensor/film and consequently its focal length gets longer meaning the angle of view gets narrower. This effect is often called "focus breathing" by movie photographers, Expensive movie lenses have been made that don;t have this. These lenses compensate the focusing effect with a bit of zoom - so these lenses are rather complex. That focus breathing is not very annoying IMO but the implication is that the "number" in aperture f/"number" changes and I call that aperture breathing. In a movie the take going darker or lighter when you change focus ... is really annoying. The Nikon Z system has "affordable" (relative to expensive cine lenses) lenses that minimise focus/aperture breathing.

[@hkanderful]

You keep up that good work girl! Never doubt yourself, you are good at what you do. Keep doing it! All the best from Norway

[@eisenschweinchen5354]

Wonderful!

[@jasonstefanuk3579]

Great video. Those questions are very thought provoking.

[@kerouacf0069]

i get a chuckle out of those wacky moves., love your videos, keep on keeping on

[@GK49245]

Lovely video. Rich content. Beautiful images with your new lens. Thanks for sharing the “fun” photography should be for us.

[@mr_shultz]

Thank you for making this. I needed it.

[@petermcginty3636]

Thank you Courtney, I really enjoy these m, more, "philosophical" videos. Makes me review why I walk out in the rain to take photos of reflections in puddles. 😅

[@appaketa]

Crazy dance LOL, loving it!

[@natureliker-ww4jo]

Thank you Courtney, for sharing. Beautyfull as ever😍, I mean the video. And of course yourself🌺

[@nb7524]

Hi, this is a timely video. You made a good point in stating the balance between seriousness and joy. It is indeed frustrating and unmotivating when I (a hobbyist) do not keep a good balance between the two, particularly because I am trying to improve.

[@BnFy119]

Good evening, another fun video thank you. The sigma 105mm is a fabulous lens (I too got it for mushroom photography). Great to see it used and lovely photos. I hit a photographic in-pass ( on hold now, new County, new house and new job). To get over it, I bought a fisheye, it was working. I believe, you and a fisheye would made a truly memorable and fantastic team together! A thought for the future? Keep the great work up and thank you .

[@kevgoes]

Another good video. Your macro is great. Study 3 was awesome.

[@dkunst338]

Thank you for your videos, Victoria! They are very inspiring. I love your photos. I have been using Sigma 105 mm for macro and sometimes for portraits too. It is a great lens. I love the backgrounds and bokeh it creates. All the best!

[@davidbirchall5124]

Lovin your videos 📹 not sure about the dancing tho ha ha. Great to see you got the Sigma 105mm Macro Lens, because that's the macro lens I have got. I've really enjoyed taking My Macro shots and although I'm only a in my 1st year with a Real Camera I'm loving Macro and wildlife photography....Still lots to learn , but im enjoying every moment....I must admit winter gas been a challenge to find wildlife and get motivated, but I've done it.....tk care and I look forward to seeing your next video 📹 📷📷👍👍

[@kieranpicken3696]

Focus shift is SOOO useful and the Sigma is brilliant. Also great for negative scanning!

[@CourtneyVictoria]

It really is! (And kinder on my back haha, I don't have to crouch down for as long!)

[@TheNitebinder]

Happy belated new year, I often find your #videos very informative.The experience you have with #macro #photography can help others how to improve theirs. I don't depend on the camera or lenses alone in creating photography project, I think skill and experience go along way. Missed your landscape work. Good luck in the new year!🥳🎆📷

[@senshi_ichigo]

i Enjoying the photos but that Dancing style made me laughing 😂 Keep the Good work Vicky 😁

[@timjoinson7232]

Brilliant thoughtful video. You are so right. I definitely get hooked up on the quality of the image and set the bar too high. Photography then becomes an exhausting challenge when it should be fun. I will take your advice, go back to enjoying myself and see what happens. Thanks Courtney.

[@raleighmeade9104]

Reflective! Loved it!

[@tysonator5433]

Great video, only down side is MPB the sponsor. I have used them twice and each time not a very good experience at all. The last occasion I part ex a lens for use one on the mpb web site only to find it had an error code when I tested it. After some reading of reviews I read this was a common issue with mpb not fully testing the gear, if at all, or the description was incorrect from the actual conditions. Also my part ex lens was knocked down on its value once they received claiming it had a scratch on the rear element. When The deal fell through and I asked for my lens back I had to pay FULL retail price for it from mpb, and when I did get it back I could not find any scratch. I used a macro lens and 45mp camera to hunt for said scratch, and strangely enough I did not find any scratch ! ! Problem when a deal with mpb goes south for the consumer it cost the customer in the pocket ! All mpb offered me was a £10 discount voucher off a £100 spend as their idea of compensation ! !

[@kennethnielsen3864]

Thanks for sharing.

[@thomasphillips5850]

Great video, wonderful images. Your videos are fun to watch, I really appreciate them. So what do you think of the Sigma? Thanks again.

[@colinmorris2604]

this video sounds like zen in the art of photography, it's the art of challenging yourself and the rewards the hobby gives without going down a rabbit hole that is not fun or creative. and sometimes the best photos are taken when you don't think but feel what you are doing.. so you learn all the tech stuff and do it without all the thoughts that get in the way of creative expression. maybe?

[@wongkenneth4005]

Great video, the lens you are using produced very good results, of course with your skill. Thinking of buying the Sigma macro lens .

[@simonh]

Great vid as always! I do love the Sigma 105mm and I love the stacked images you captured with it.

[@danncorbit3623]

Crooked was magical.

[@MrFreakwent]

I have used the Sigma 150mm( same lens series ) for several years; the extra 50mm gives me good working distance for insects. It's a heavy beast, but I am always surprised with how well it works and results are astonishing..🐛

[@bradleysnavely7141]

Your right, I've noticed this last year I only take photos that look good to post, I've deleted a lot of ones that I didn't like. 😮

[@Matt_Captures_Nature]

Excellent video as always Courtney. How did you find the auto focus on the Sigma? I use the same set up and it can be a bit hit and miss at times. Thanks

[@vogle11]

Very good video Courtney love your videos so well done and a pleasure to watch 😊

[@slyn4ogled1]

Wonderful video with a beautiful background of thoughts - I really love what you give to us, dear - please continue to do it !!!

[@slyn4ogled1]

Oh, yeah - and I really love the craziness in your dances !!!

[@relaxingtherapeuticnaturevideo]

Beautiful work!

[@Mitch.Wasserman]

7:47 "No sh*t Sherlock" . I thought that was an American phrase. Sounds much cuter when Courtney says it. 😊 Great video once again.

[@SeaAngMo23]

this resonates with me.