When Photography Gear Matters

[@mauriciolee7349]

Thank Simon for DEMONSTRATING why I need Arca Swiss C1 Cube to elevate my landscape photography to the next level.

[@GlenDomulevicz]

I agree. Gear can be important if it expands your options for your style of photography. I had considered the cube before, opted for a Manfrotto fluid head. I shoot landscapes, wildlife and trying to expand into video. It helps me. Thanks for sharing.

[@romiemiller7876]

I always click the like button when your video first comes on because I know it'll be great. * There are advantages to a center post tripod, just so long as the post locks solidly and won't wobble. * Crop options don't matter for me. I'd never use them. I figure all that out in post. But that's me. Thomas Heaton crops in camera also. I do try to use as much sensor as I can; No sense to wasting pixels if large prints are coming later.

[@jpdj2715]

Simon, the general tendency - it is the photographer, not the kit that makes the photo - totally agree. The Arca cube being impressive and reminding of the Sinar tilt approach, I have to ask if it is easy to get the camera into the nodal point of all those adjustments the cube can make. As to large format cameras., we would use a camera level or true, and slide (shift) lens or film plane or both in parallel. Shift film for top image, and next shift for bottom, would give a tall easily stitched image with a single perspective. You rely on rotation now and this gives a change in perspective between the images that you stitch later on. Note, when you shoot in hilly or mountainous areas, tilting the camera up or down, changes the perspective in a way that influences perception of height, later on, between parts of the resulting image, when a viewer looks at your picture. As to the nodal point of a lens - this is where you >don't< have stitching issues in the foreground when you rotate your camera/lens. If the cube does not serve panoramas, then I would spend that money differently - however it is a beautiful thing and the price is justified considering where it comes from and what it does. Yes, the ease with which you can adjust to level or true, you will never get from a freely adjustable head. If people don't have the 1,700 currencies for the cube, half the amount buys an Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with a MonoballFix Quick Release (Geared) #870105. The cube may be especially appealing to people focusing on macro photography as it helps retain focus more easily when changing frame.

[@normanschultz1142]

Thank You, enjoy your informative videos, I really like seeing your 4 legged shooting partner nothing better than having a shooting buddy that can watch your back so to speak yet not complain when you stop for a picture opportunity.

[@demacf6805]

Long ago and far away I was the most junior member of an industrial/engineering photo team on a Big Government Project - lots of gear only a BGP had the budget for! The most extreme basic camera I got to use was 8 X 10 sheet film mounted on a 16 X 20 studio camera, with a substantial ladder to get up to the focusing screen, 10 or even 15 feet behind the lens. Overkill certainly, but exceptional results decades before digital photography changed the world. I was very fortunate that the BGP could justify young and limber junior photogs assisting the older seniors.

[@jameshines3936]

I've ordered an umbrella! It's a frustration that's easily solved and i never thought about it until i saw you using one! 😄

[@robwasnj]

One of the best gear related videos ever. I actually passed on upgrading to the R4 but recently bought a much taller tripod as well as a boom arm. Oftentimes I found myself being able to hand hold a camera over a rail or safety barrier around moving water but couldn't do long exposures properly because I was unable to get my camera on the tripod where it needs to be. Very similar situation to yours, it feels to to get some reinforcement. Love seeing meg too! She's the perfect guide on your tours, always brings a smile to my face seeing her frolic about.the countryside.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks, I'm glad you agree and are also benefitting from the extra reach. A good tripod is one of the most important pieces of kit in my workflow.

[@azziria967]

It’s about buying a piece of gear when the lack of it is starting to limit what you want to do, rather than buying it because you think it will make you a ‘better’ photographer. I’ve just dipped into my savings to add a wide angle lens to my kit because I’ve started to ‘see’ photos that I want to take but can’t with my standard zoom. Really enjoying how it has expanded my options 🙂

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

I agree. Plus it takes experience to recognise what those limitations are. Lots of people dive straight into buying a polarising filter but I very rarely use one, for example.

[@RonPlanche255]

I’m so jealous of your constant companion. It’s really giving me pause (paws!). After my Lab passed away several years back I made a decision to wait until I stop travelling to get another. Your video makes me think I have made an error. Thank you. BTW love my Cube and RRS extended length tripod: your comments echo my experience.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

I'm sure you'll know when the time is right to get another dog. Many see dogs as quite tying, but I'm never conscious of any inconvenience - I'm more than happy to adapt for her needs too. I'm glad you enjoy the Cube. I certainly would have looked at the RRS tripods if there were a bit easier to purchase over here. Thanks.

[@christophergrove4876]

🇨🇦/🇺🇸 SIMON! 😃 How's it goin' bro!? I've been hummin' and hawing over tripods and heads for ages. It is ESPECIALLY important to have the perfect setup when using high megapixel sensors with high pixel density because even the SLIGHTEST... TEENY TINY... vibration can SMEAR the image over several pixel sites effectively turning a 36 or 48 MP sensor into HALF that or less. I've heard many stories of photographer spending lots of money on a new, higher megapixel camera only to see NO DIFFERENCE in their images, all because they see a tripod and head as SECONDARY players in the photography game when in fact they are PRIMARY to great landscape photographs. This is even more important when one prints HUGE, large-format images. (I am a large-format printing technician and occasionally print for The Henry Ford Museum, here in Michigan) GREAT VIDEO, Simon!!! One last point... MEG is a PRICELESS piece of landscape gear that requires a LOT of maintenance! hehehe Cheers, bro!

[@20centurymodern]

Agree with your thoughts, whilst watching and when you mentioned your new tripod and head allow you to create images you hadn't comprehended before by moving higher, have you ever used a tilt shift lens before? They offer the benifits of keeping perspective straight, but also being able to shift the point of view up, down, left and right. Can also open up the possibilities of stitching images seamlessly

[@davidletz9123]

Always a treat to see a new Simon Baxter video.

[@rockychocbill]

And I find the loud "click" of the 401PL quick release plate solidly locking into position very reassuring and easier than the Arca-Swiss knobs.

[@pauldarville3843]

Great gear, Thanks Simon!

[@stevehayward1854]

I have just up graded to a 5 series Gitzo with the fabulous addition of a bowl head, which makes levelling a breeze, no fiddling with legs trying to get things level. I bought the 5 series because the legs are crazy long (2.78m) as I found myself on river banks etc not able to use my old tripod (Manfrotto 055CXPRO) a) because the legs werent long enough or b) not rigid enough to resist the flow of the current. Unfortunately the Gitzo is quite a weight but when you need that extra reach, you've got it, I am now able to get angles I couldn't before and I am limited by how high I can reach to the camera

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Yep, that's a huge tripod! I'm pleased you're seeing the benefit of it though - good tripods are worth the investment. I opted for one that gives me good height but is relatively light for its size - also having to consider the additional weight of the Cube. Thanks for sharing.

[@stevehayward1854]

@@SimonBaxterPhotography I just have to invest in a light weight step ladder now lol

[@mndoci]

That pan in the intro is just amazing. Beautiful stuff.

[@d.robert998]

I too use a Cube atop an extra-tall Gitzo Systematic GT3543XLS, but I rarely lug that into the field. Too heavy and bulky, especially with a Z7-based mirrorless kit. I use a Gitzo Traveler 2530 and a Novoflex MB 50 ball head instead.

[@stevebennettphotography]

Yeah I’m not even going to attempt a ‘but Simon Baxter said I needed it......’ with that 😮. Looks a really nice bit of kit though👍

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Haha! It's very nice but it's not something I would recommend to everyone. It's taken a while for me to decide I was ready for one.

[@liamjepson2671]

Very inspiration. I use an ifootage gazelle for it bowl head it was game changing to not have to mess around with the tripod legs to level my camera ..my biggest downfall is not enough time to location scout ..im also local to north Yorkshire like yourself

[@jaydesimone4297]

Great video, Simon! Any time I see someone asking, "Should I buy XXX item?" I ask what problem they hope to solve, and how often it occurs. That single question, asked and answered honestly, can help prevent impulse purchases without benefit. Yes, new gear can improve your photography, but only if it compensates for a limitation you're encountering with your current gear often enough to justify the expense. One disadvantage of social media is that it's very easy to mingle with people who have top of the line gear and feel gear envy, especially if those people are skilled, as well. Hobbyists especially can be vulnerable when mixing with pros who may need to upgrade constantly to stay competitive when the hobbyist doesn't (unless they also expect to be competitive at a professional level as a hobbyist, which seems unlikely...more likely ego than need).

[@chriseyrewalker]

Loved it! And your woodland photography always just blows me away. Keep it up Simon ;-)

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Cheers buddy, much appreciated :-). Hope you're well?

[@carlb401]

I deliberated for months on a geared head. In the end i went with the Arca Swiss D5 as i couldn't afford the cube. Plus i think the D5 is slightly lighter which helped as i was trying to lighten up with my camera gear.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Are you happy with it? I'm always trying to get my gear lighter but I was happy to take the hit on this one.

[@carlb401]

@@SimonBaxterPhotography Extremely happy with it, i would say it is one of the best purchases i have ever made. I think the only thing it lacks compared to the Cube is geared panning, but i can live without it. :)

[@matthewhenry6281]

I just added a Sony 100-400 to my kit. It completes my landscape photography lens needs. My longest reach before that was my 24-105

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

That's a great range you have now. I only have up to 200mm but spend most of time shooting up to 70mm :)

[@matthewhenry6281]

Simon Baxter I’m usually under the 100mm range but there are times that long range is great. Funny enough, in the mountains it is very useful. Opens up new photo opportunities.

[@ForrestWest]

Great gear advice! I have an older gitzo XLS model and the extra leg sections are very useful on steep or uneven terrain. You can also extend the lower sections and then use the uppermost sections to make adjustments as you're shooting without having to bend over. Older models can be found well under $1,000 on eBay. Best of luck to you in 2020!

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks and I'm pleased you agree. All the best to you too!

[@tjmanou6422]

Every pro photographer that says "gear doesn't matter" has expensive gear. Ironic ;) I agree with you. Investing in good gear is important.

[@pablogonzalez8304]

I can definitely see the advantage of using that cube almost like maneuvering an artillery piece capturing the subject with fine precision

[@malcolmbawn9773]

Hi Simon, I enjoyed the vlog as usual. I spend too much on gear that just adds conflict to my photography workflow. The best photography spend I’ve made in the last 2 years is going on yours and Rachael’s workshop in Scotland.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

That's very kind of you to say so, Malcolm :)

[@drewhumphrey]

Two points, Simon (1) I could never have that tripod because I always destroy mine (2) Your point on height perspective is why I find myself shooting handheld more often these days, especially thanks to the incredible IBIS in Olympus cameras.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

You could, but even with the ibis I'd find it to be too limiting as I often shoot in low light. I'm sure it can feel liberating to not carry a tripod though.

[@davebryer6133]

Loved those images, Simon. Thanks for the video, being incredibly cheep will not likely ever own that tripod and head set up, but until I saw you using the geared head I did not even know they existed, and they do appeal to me. Time to look for used or a less expensive model. Thanks

[@CamillaI]

I have only just noticed how many different ways I support my A9 for wildlife photography stability really matters

[@tjsinva]

Reasonable perspective, as usual. The cube is both heavy and pricey. 😱 Rock on!

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

It certainly is. It's right for me but certainly not for everyone.

[@stevemarson9665]

Nice video. The three things that have improved my landscape photography in the last year the most are tripod spikes, using in camera aspect ratios and an Arca Swiss D4 geared tripod head. All three directly improve the critical aspects of producing good images: technical failure and composition. If you ever use gear like the cube or the D4/P0 (which are it's baby brothers) you would never go back to a conventional ballhead. No point having a tripod if it wobbles on spongy ground due to big rubber feet, and no matter how good at 'pre-visualisation' you think you are, nothing beats cropping the scene when you are actually there to get the optimum composition.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Surely those things plus workshops ;-). I agree, although I guess it also depends upon personal preference and what you want to get out of it. For me and many others, whether you like it or not, gear really can make a difference to the end result.

[@rockychocbill]

I've had the Manfrotto 401 geared head for 5+ years now. It's the only head I've ever owned and hopefully will be the only one I ever own. It's a bit heavy, but I love it.

[@jamesjohnston6765]

I have also contemplated this head thanks to Ben. So far I have held off on the investment as unlike you, I did buy the a7RIV. In my case, that body has added to my wildlife imagery. Time will tell as I will soon be able to travel and focus more on landscape. I still think it is the ultimate head for landscape work.

[@HRRGA]

Very thoughtful as always! Although I have to admit to suffer from mild gear acquisition syndrom I have lately come to the conclusion that the most influential and beneficial investments in my photography were photo trips and workshops. Nothing can replace the effect of being out there in the landscape with likeminded people and learning from them.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks, Holger. I completely agree and that's exactly what I was saying in my A7R4 video. I'm chuffed you still feel that way after being on my workshops haha 😁

[@HRRGA]

@@SimonBaxterPhotography Well, I guess the workshops provided only the initial spark to go out more often and meet other photographers and share the experience. Though I have to say I'll certainly attend future workshops with you - there's no hope for you to get rid of me soon :)

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

@@HRRGA haha, I hope you do. You're always welcome :) I'm still trying to figure out Wales!

[@klausschleicher523]

Very informative video Simon! If new gear helps to widen your photographic possibilities, this is Great. I‘m still the most limitating factor in my photography. Hope to reach the point where new gear will improve my photography. 🤗 At the moment for me it is better to invest in learning 😃

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Absolutely, the important thing is to identify where you're at and what you need to progress. Certain gear comes further down the line but cheap items such as l-brackets are still wise purchases in the early stages :)

[@rds990]

"Gear" is needed when the going gets tough. Tough situations, tough lighting, tough conditions. For example.... D5 will outshoot most anything out there when the going gets super tough (low light, fast action, super fast focus, and burst needed) . Can one tell the difference in a D5 and a D3400 when shot in good light with a still subject, 30 feet away ?? Hardly.

[@dilliboirubirosa9638]

I’ve had a Cube for several years (use it on a Series 3 Gitzo Systematic XLS tripod), but it would never ever enter my mind to use it for anything but macro and tabletop work in the studio!

[@bernardfranck1318]

... And If your camera is higher and titled douwn, you also have less raindrops on your front lens 🌞... Anjoy your new needed gear 📷

[@timothylinn]

Nice vid, Simon. I always appreciate content that takes a more nuanced view of the role of gear in good photography. That said, the most interesting take away for me is that the Cube is HUGE. Looks awesome though. :-) I don't know that I fully appreciate all its advantages. I've also admired Arca's geared D4 head which seems to offer some of the same benefits.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks, Timothy! I don't find the Cube to be too cumbersome. It's heavy but has a reasonably compact form factor compared to the Benro and Manfrotto geared heads. I borrowed a D4 but I wasn't as keen. The D4 has the advantage of some movement that's more akin to a ballhead but I find the Cube to be ore enjoyable to use.

[@timothylinn]

Simon Baxter Thanks for the insights, Simon.

[@Sunrazor]

Ever tried any of Novoflex gear? I find them fantastic. The packaging is industrial and terrible but the tripod gear I think is unmatched.

[@PatrickRosenbalm]

Great job and beautiful work!!

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks, Patrick!

[@KrackaShorts]

Brilliant as always Simon,thank you

[@thebope32]

It is true that there is a controversy around gears mainly because all commercial, publicity... Etchetera. But, I think there are certain gears with which one feels more comfortable and, in a way, also helps your self-confidence.

[@Luigi13]

Hello Simon, I really enjoy your woodland photography, it has inspired me to also get into shooting woodlands and alike. I am a cityscape shooter most of the time but I enjoy seeing your work and passion you have in the creation of your images. As someone has already mentioned you do have an eloquent way of presenting your videos on your channel, and yes I am a subscriber. Gears are tools and if a person sees a need to make a change to what he photographs with a different gear let it be? Trying out something new and seeing results that matter is always a good investment. When a person is happy with a new gear there is no dispute to that, Isn't it? Cheers, and thanks for creating cheerful content.

[@Sunrazor]

Problems arise when you start to confuse the need for gear with the lack of knowledge or skill. I have seen so many photographers that thinks that by buying that fullframe mpix monster they will get their problems fixed. And many times they actually think it did. Because they lack skill to even critisize their own images. I agree that gear can really make a difference though. But most of the times it is not a camera. It's other things like straps, macro rail, flash and accessories, tripod etc. I don't think I have seen any photographer that I could genuinly say would benefit from switching camera.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Hi! Yes, I completely agree and that's why I chose to invest in this tripod set up rather a new camera. Analysis of yourself, your needs and self criticism is an important process when buying gear or making any kind of investment in your work. There does come a point where a new camera is of great benefit - more so if you're looking to make high quality large prints.

[@MJLangdon175]

It’s amazing how much a technical field camera (like what Joe uses) can help with landscape photography, but it is very expensive to get set up with the lenses and camera and a steep learning curve.

[@chriss2761]

That set up looks good Simon, great video and those images are beautiful 👌

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks, Chris!

[@tompetersphotography]

It’s about time someone actually acknowledged that the right gear being expensive or cheap, certainly helps.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Thank you. "Gear doesn't matter" is a nice sentiment but it depends in what context. Certain gear is extremely useful to us as landscape photographers. You don't 'need' an L Bracket but what a difference they make :)

[@garyhunter1938]

Exactly my thoughts, gear most certainly does matter to get the Pro level shots.

[@tompetersphotography]

Simon Baxter nail on the head👍🏻

[@jaydesimone4297]

But look how far Simon has gotten without the gear at the heart of this video. Expensive gear is only right when it solves a limitation encountered frequently with the current kit and the budget can accommodate.

[@christian.irmler]

Let me be honest Simon: You could take photographs with your phone only and the results were just amazing! I see it like you: The a7riv gives not really that advantage you need to get better photos, but a higher tripod to photograph from a higher point of view in woodland can definitely be a significant one.

[@a1pestservice]

Whats the pros and cons of what you use and a ballhead ?

[@BGaud]

Hi Simon, greetings from Boston, USA. I love your videos, please keep making them. If you don't mind, I'd like to ask a gear related question. I currently shoot with the Tamron 28-75 as my primary lens, but I'm looking to get a second lens. After looking through your gear page, I noticed you had the Sony 24-105 f4. What are your thoughts on that lens? I'm torn between that or a Sony 85mm 1.8. Do you think that extra range in the 24-105 is worth the price? Appreciate any feedback.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Thank you, Brian. Glad you enjoy them. That's a very difficult question to answer as only you know where your current limitations lie. Is the 85mm going to be worth it for the extra 10mm of reach? Probably not. But if you need a fast lens that's tack sharp and you like the creative process of working with primes then go for it. If you want convenience and a lighter set up then 24-105 is going to cover all basis. The 24-105 is a great lens - light, convenient and sharp. Is it as good as the 24-70GM? I don't think it is, but I'd rather carry the 24-105 if I'm out all day in the hills of Scotland or if I think the extra reach will be useful without carrying the 70-200mm.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

I have the Mach 4 and I love it. The best tripod I have ever had.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Yeah, my Mach 3 has been great. Still the best tripod for the money that I've used.

[@billjohnstonjr.1037]

I'm returning to this after several years. My question does not have to do with tripod or geared head equipment. Instead, I'd like to know what backpack you'd recommend for someone with a bad back.

[@davebrown2047]

The biggest game changer for me was the secondhand Benro 3 way geared head that cost me £70, good gear doesn't have to cost a fortune or a re-mortgage,

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Bargain! It absolutely doesn't have to cost a fortune. I've been using fairly cheap ballheads for years and they've been ideal for what I needed at the time. I much prefer how the Cube works compared to other geared heads I've tried but they are stupidly expensive, so I hope it lasts many years :)

[@anthonylamb979]

Great video Simon and I'm still trying to work out how you managed to film the opening scene....?

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Many thanks! Just a simple sideways flight with my drone :)

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Thanks for watching! As I've said in the description, we don't 'need' expensive gear like this. It's primarily about enjoyment and, when we feel ready, making wise investments that suit your own needs and vision. It's not a decision I took lightly, but so far it's genuinely made a difference and enhanced my practice. Other than cameras, what piece of equipment has had the biggest impact on the photos you take and your workflow in the field?

[@scotty4418]

Tripod was definitely my first lesson in buy nice or buy twice. Making the proper investment certainly provides a bit more peace of mind. Your new Gitzo and geared head certainly looks a stable platform to work from Simon

[@windleman1]

I still have my A7ii that I had when we were out together earlier this year, but I upgraded my tripod to an iFootage Gazelle and a bigger Manfrotto 500ah fluid head (much better than a ball head!). Have you any more trips planned to the Welsh woods?

[@KarlVaughan]

I would say my new tripod. Like yours, mine extends to well above head height which enables me to reach places that I couldn't previously with my old tripod. I've got the A7RIII too and am still getting to grips with it. There is no reason for me to change it any time soon. That would be a waste of money.

[@enricooldoino1967]

Hi Simon , for me that I have soooo little spare time the stabilisation of my micro four third camera is really stunning ( try to believe !) , I plan to use a tripod in future ,when I will retire from work,as obviously a tripod is better, but believe me the stabilisation of my OLY is phenomenal

[@stevebennettphotography]

Totally away from photography gear and has had a noticeable impact is decent outdoor gear letting me be out in the more ‘interesting’ conditions 👍

[@FrankBergdoll]

Wonderful video - had me concerned at 2:45 - but it wasn't a wild creature - all good.

[@colinturner6628]

Hi great video, is the Arca Swiss cube the classic or with the geared panning?.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Thank you. I got the one with geared panning and classic fix.

[@colinturner6628]

@@SimonBaxterPhotography 👍👍👍👍👍 Cheers.

[@jeffpotter7958]

So I'm watching the Cube in action thinking, 'wow, really slick, might need to get me one." Went to B&H and saw the price.... My Manfrotto is fine...

[@RonPlanche255]

Wow! The price does hurt. So does the price of a great camera. So does the price of the right tripod. I have never regretted investing in the right gear. The Acra Swiss Cube has allowed me to make panos and compositions that have included up to 45 images.

[@rodgerwearne9931]

Thanks, Great photos as always

[@Hirsutechin]

Sorry Simon, you're still missing another piece of gear - a stepladder. Charlie Waite uses one...! (really)

[@andychattaway5620]

And a Land Rover with a roof platform like David Noton has.

[@fabenedet]

Hey! Good afternoon! Can you help me? Where can i buy this adjustable stand that you use on your tripod?

[@scottweaverphotovideo]

Over the years when other photographers I know express excitement about getting this or that piece of equipment because they think it will make their photography better, my advice is work for a while with even less equipment. You'll get back in touch with your genuine abilities and interest in creating images. Rarely, acquiring new equipment makes one's work better. Alternatively, I recommend renting the equipment you're interested in. Discover if it really makes the major difference you are imagining (hoping) it will.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

I agree with that advice. I've been through all that and have spent the time working with less equipment. There comes a point when you understand what gear you need and why it will help. I'm quite cold when it comes to gear, unless I know it genuinely helping in the creative process.

[@IanSmithFotografi]

Simon, aside from your quality films... your use of language is truly excellent ..

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Much appreciated, Ian. Thank you!

[@brianlaunchbury4491]

Useful thoughts and gorgeous images.

[@PeteEH]

Is the Arca Swiss Cube really worth it, costing almost 10 times more than the Benro GD3WH geared head, for example..?

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Do I feel it's worth it for me? Yes. Is it for everyone? Absolutely not. It's taken me quite a while to feel like it's worth it and how I work. Obviously I'm hoping it will last many years :)

[@GarnettLeary]

Good points.

[@susanbreau]

Simon, we all miss your videos, I hope you are doing well.

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

Thank you. I'll be back very soon :-)

[@susanbreau]

Simon Baxter happy to heat that!

[@richardpcrowe]

SLIGHTLY OFF SUBJECT - Absolutely beautiful dog!

[@davidstarkey3002]

They are tools , you would'nt try breaking through concrete with a shovel instead you may use a pick axe or a kango. So you need a range of equipment available to yourself to get the end result. Odd analogy i know but its the same thing.

[@YouNeedMyVoice]

For all of you out there who believe that you must have the latest Full Frame and that krispy G Master in order to get motivated for going out and shoot, think about this: Your smartphone is probably more capable ( in terms of colour, sharpness, low light performance, macro, dymanic rage, unlimited number of shoots) compared to the film camera Mr. Henri Cartier-Bresson was using 📸 You should have the gear that provides enough quality and performance for your type of project. (personal or professional) But, let us be honest here: We don't actually know a pixel peeeper who has been published, his books are selling and amateur photographers look up to him. For me the ones which are obsessed with the latest gear are just like basketball freaks: The buy the latest shoes, balls, equipment, dvd's of how to know the secret moves, but they cannot trow a ball not even for their own life :)) In conclusion.. What matters? Your portofolio, what you create. I have a friend with a 7000$ gear and he's not doing well (both financially and social media), and another friend who shoots only with iPhone 11 Pro and his Instagram account just hit 98K..so, you'll do the math.

[@davejohn5876]

There was nothing wrong with Sony releasing the A7rIV I just wish they would have released it as its own different series. I Don’t know call it a A7mI or something. It seems that when a lot of Canon photographers moved over to Sony, (me included) was when they released the a7rIII. It was a substantial gain in build quality,(especially for a Sony body) had noticeable improvements in IQ over the 5DIII and 5DIV and much better DR then the really old 5DS. Plus the over all performance, (speed, file size etc.) though not great was manageable. Now with Sony's 61 megapixel A7rIV that leaves a huge void between the A7III series and the A7rIV. To me that ‘void’ is the sweet spot for photography. I would much rather have a a7rIV in the same megapixel range with better ergonomics, more robust build, higher resolution EVF and LCD screen, faster processor and if needed different memory cards for buffer clearing, much better menu layout and navigation, Plus some type of Lossless compression or file size options. Some of these issues have again slowly been implemented on the newer camera. But essentially the major problems that plague Sony's cameras still exist. It's a shame the A7rIV could have been a great camera instead of just another camera.

[@raycornell5102]

This is not meant as a criticism but I would enjoy your vids more if you could balance the voice and music volumes a bit better. The music is quite a bit louder than than your commentary forcing me to adjust my volume up/down as needed to be comfortable. Your vids are quite good other than that issue.

[@jakobhovman]

Hello Simon...The laws of physics have a big impact for me. My first Lightmeters All showed, that Kodaks:"Sunny Sixteen" was true. I like to know, where a chart is coming from...! Impact nr 2: The enlarger and darkroom...(and a sure nr 3: Mood)...! Greetings...!

[@KevinRusso]

I have always thought gear needs to suit a vision. Having gear just to have it serves no purpose. Your gear must help you meet what you are trying to achieve.

[@PaulFaracePhotography]

Wow that thing is a biggie! Bet it's nice to use though.

[@robertgrenader858]

At $1820, I hope you insure that Cube!

[@frauleindaniela]

That’s the price only for the cube?

[@robertgrenader858]

@@frauleindaniela Yes

[@rogervoller6917]

Good idea, I use a much cheaper manfrotto geared head and it helps me fine tune the composition in woodland as oppose to a ball head.

[@twagn]

Gear does matter. Not new iPhones

[@RS-Amsterdam]

Only bad photographers blame their gear !!!!

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

I completely disagree. Photographers evolve and their gear evolves with them. If you create a bad photo and blame your gear then that's on you. But if gear opens up new opportunities and allows you to capture scenes in a new way then that's a good thing.

[@RS-Amsterdam]

​@@SimonBaxterPhotography What you are talking about is to ease the work , nobody will say that is Simons work before his new tripod and adjustable head and that is Simons work after !!

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

@@RS-Amsterdam It's true that you're not going to see any difference by only looking at photos presented in a video, but that's why I made this video. The photos at the waterfall and the perspective at which they were captured were only made possible by the tripod upgrade. You'd never know that unless I told you in a video. So having the ability to shoot from over 2 metres high means that it allows you to consider more when in the field. That's nothing to do with making it easier, it's about opening up new opportunities, just like a new lens might. The geared head is more of a tool to assist in my workflow which does make precision easier but the emphasis here is on the tripod, which most certainly will and has had an impact on the photos I take. That's fact.

[@RS-Amsterdam]

@@SimonBaxterPhotography Still beg to differ. Picture this: I do a mushroom shoot every year in the dunes here (hour drive from my home) , Around October I have to visit a kinda secret place with a huge variety of mushrooms of-sight, of-route, don't want to share the spot cause not disturbing them will guarantee next years grow , They rise in about 2 days after heavy rain fall, which means I have to lay down on my belly for a couple of hours on the wet ground putting my body in the most awkward positions cause I don't use flippy screens but get the job done. Would they be better if I had a flippy screen. Don't think so, but my body would love it though hehehehe

[@SimonBaxterPhotography]

@@RS-Amsterdam That all sounds good but I think you're perhaps missing the point. When you'r laid on the ground, you can still make the photo work whether you have a flippy screen or not. In my case, I need the tripod to position my camera above head height in order to get the best angle on the trees and waterfall. It simply wouldn't be possible without the tripod. Hand holding wouldn't work because a) it would be very hard to get precision and b) impossible to hold the camera steady enough without compromising the image quality or movement in the water. It all depends upon on your own approach to photography - what you like to shoot and how you like to shoot it. For me and many others (including Joe) the tripod makes a big difference. For others, it's not important in the slightest. The point is that we should invest in the tools that assist and better our own practice. For me, in this instance, it's a tripod. For you, it might be a flippy screen ;)