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Unboxing the Camera Case from @moment
Now…if they can only tell me where my VND is 😭 #iphone17promax #moment #iphonecase
Perfect Size lens for the Lumix S9 #ttartisan #lumixs9
So far, the TTArtisan 40mm F2 for L-Mount feels like the lens Panasonic forgot to make when they released the Lumix S9.
Finally! The Perfect Lens for the Lumix S9 – TTArtisan 40mm F2
TTArtisan sent me their new 40mm F2 full-frame autofocus lens for L-Mount, and after a week of testing, I can honestly say this is the lens the S9 has been missing since launch. In this review, I test it in real-world conditions: morning fog, low light, and downtown street photography. You’ll see how it performs in autofocus, sharpness, bokeh, and overall usability. Plus it balances perfectly on the tiny Lumix S9 body. If you’ve been waiting for a small, affordable lens that finally looks *right* on the S9, this might be it. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Details and Extras 03:22 - On to the Photos! 04:33 - Photography: Fog and Landscape 06:40 - Photography: Night 08:18 - Photography: Street 09:51 - Quick Thoughts on the Lumix S9 11:54 - Video Performance 12:38 - Wrap Up UPDATE: As soon as I post this video, the lens appears on their site now 😆, I guess that's the way these things go. The lens can be found in the links below AFFILIATE LINKS (I get a small commission for each sale): ** TTArtisan 40mm F2 L ** TTArtisan Official: https://ttartisan.store/products/af-40mm-f2-l?ref=abivfwaq Amazon: https://amzn.to/4o07hyE B&H: https://bhpho.to/4nWif8v ** Panasonic Lumix S9 ** Amazon (black): https://amzn.to/4nYzQN1 Amazon (silver, international): https://amzn.to/3IPtsbH B&H (black): https://bhpho.to/3KT3wMO ** DJI Osmo Pocket 3 ** Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ook1io B&H: https://bhpho.to/3KV3GmP ** K&F Concept Magnetic Mount Stand Compatible with DJI Osmo Pocket 3 ** Amazon: https://amzn.to/3KS3aGd **About this channel** I make videos about photography, cameras, and creativity — from gear that fits real-world use to the mindset that helps you keep shooting. #TTArtisan #LumixS9 #Lmount #LensReview #Photography
Microphones on #iphone17promax
The video I released on October 4, 2025 had some poor audio quality and it was shot using the front-facing camera of the iPhone 17 Pro Max with the DJI Mic 1 plugged in. I don't know what I did wrong with that audio combination, it's worked well in the past, but this time it sounded terrible. The audio directly from the iPhone built-in microphones works much, much better.
iPhone Air vs Pro Max: The Reason I Switched
I was hyped for the iPhone Air—thin, light, and unlike anything Apple has made in years. But after just four days, I had to return it. In this video I break down: - Why I chose the iPhone Air in the first place - The features Apple nailed (and why they matter for creators) - The deal-breaking problems I ran into in the real world - Why I ultimately went with the iPhone 17 Pro Max instead If you’re debating between the Air and Pro models, this might help you figure out which one is right for you. UPDATE: I want to clarify that the 6.5” screen on the iPhone Air felt too large for one-handed use. I accept the larger 6.9” inch display of the Pro Max because of its utility. Not only did I want the largest battery I could get, but I can also mount the phone to my camera and use Lumix Flow to make the iPhone a monitor. 📷 Follow my photography work: https://chrisfreitag.com CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - The Positives 03:25 - The Negatives 06:54 - iPhone as a Utility 08:03 - iPhone 17 Pro Max #iPhoneAir #iPhone17ProMax #iPhoneReview
Photographers: Just Go (Even If It Rains)
This video is about pushing through challenges in photography. I set out early with my dog, Shadow, for a day of landscape photography and video work in Colorado’s mountains. The forecast promised sun, but instead I drove straight into steady rain. Instead of turning back, I kept going. The trip reminded me why we carry our cameras even when conditions aren’t perfect. Sometimes things don’t go the way you planned, but if you push through, you might find your photo. If you’re a photographer who struggles with motivation, this is your reminder to just get out there and take the shot. See more of my Video Essays here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPX-eJBExfUON_TD5_qFYp-xTXR2Wx3VM&si=yjrUl68jHkzzcQeH Gear Used: Leica Q3, Panasonic Lumix S1IIe, Panasonic Lumix S9, DJI Osmo Pocket 3, DJI Action Cam Pro 5 #landscapephotography #photographer #motivation
Whoops! Got another Panasonic Lumix S9…sort of
Whoops… I swapped out my black Panasonic Lumix S9 for the silver international version! The S9 has already made a big impression on me as a content creation camera, and I’m excited to start using this version. #LumixS9 #PanasonicLumix #CameraGear
Panasonic S1IIE First Impressions — The Best Kept Secret in the Lumix Lineup
In this video, I share my first impressions of the Panasonic Lumix S1IIE, a camera I think many people are sleeping on. While the S1RII and S1II have the headline-grabbing specs, they also have some well-documented issues. The S1IIE feels like the Goldilocks of the lineup — just right for photographers and videographers who value reliability, usability, and real-world performance. I’ll cover why I initially dismissed this camera, the quality-of-life upgrades that caught my attention, and how it performs in actual use. If you’ve been wondering whether the S1IIE is worth considering, this video is for you. RELATED VIDEOS: Panasonic Lumix S1RII First Impressions https://youtu.be/-9i0xCFlqsw Why I Returned the Panasonic Lumix S1RII https://youtu.be/vE4c6wLje6g CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:23 - Quick Recap Why I Returned the S1RII 01:29 - Why I Dismissed The S1IIE At First 03:25 - Quality of Life Upgrades 07:07 - How Does The S1IIE Perform? 09:44 - FInal Thoughts 10:59 - Wrap Up #panasoniclumix #S1IIE #camerareview
Chasing Photography in Summer Storms
I didn't know I'd find a photo style while chasing storms on the Eastern plains of Colorado . What started as curiosity turned into an ongoing visual project born out of a single, painterly photo of a house in the rain. Over months I found myself driving county roads, chasing rain, lightning, and stormy skies. Link to my Series on Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag/series/3XTDAG0ODvNyOUoCRtjtpu-storms-on-the-plains Watch more of my photography video essays with this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkiFsAowPEY&list=PLPX-eJBExfUON_TD5_qFYp-xTXR2Wx3VM CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:41 - I'm Not Crazy 02:28 - How It Started 03:54 - How I Found a Style I Wanted to Chase 05:41 - Different Levels of Fear Factor 06:29 - There Was No Ulterior Motive 07:13 - What If I Did a Zine? 08:52 - The Point of All This 10:11 - Wrapping Up Music track: Flykten över Öresund (Instrumental) Artist: Henrik Meierkord Music courtesy of Audiio: https://audiio.com/henrik-meierkord Let me know in the comments if you’d be interested in a zine or behind‑the‑scenes series. If you enjoyed this, please like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more visual journeys in 2025. #coloradophotography #stormphotography #photoproject #visualstorytelling
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 didn’t live up to my own hype #pocket3
I got a Panasonic Lumix S9 and now I think I don't need the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 anymore. I never used it! I've had it for over a year and I never use it the way I thought I would. For the record, it took me 10 minutes from record to post using MP4 Lite on the Panasonic Lumix S9. Quick edits cuts Davinci Resolve, no color correction.
Lumix S9 in Low Light at 12800 ISO #lumixs9 #lowlight
Testing the Panasonic Lumix in low-light set at 12800 ISO. Pretty good if you ask me. No noise reduction applied!
My New Photography Ride: the 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness
I knew that my giant-sized SUV was not right for me. Funny enough, it got great gas mileage so that wasn't the reason. But the sheer size of the thing was troublesome when driving in the mountains and on trails. It was simply too wide and didn't have enough ground clearance. Enter the 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness, a car really built for the kind of off-roading I like to do. I can use this to get me deeper into the woods for photography and that's the whole goal. I know I said I wanted to get away from gear videos, but this didn't feel like run of the mill gear. 😀 I started a new YouTube Channel just for my Subaru Outback and Subaru Life: https://www.youtube.com/@shadow-subaru 📷 Captured on: Panasonic Lumix S5IIX, Panasonic Lumix S9, DJI Pocket 3, DJI Action Pro 5 AFFILIATE LINKS: Suction Cup Mounts for Action Cam: https://amzn.to/4f4mfQx Panasonic Lumix S5IIX: https://amzn.to/4o4R6k2 Panasonic Lumix S9: https://amzn.to/45gSOY1 DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo: https://amzn.to/4f89sg7 DJI Action 5 Pro Adventure Combo: https://amzn.to/451M9jj #OutbackWilderness #LandscapePhotography #SubaruAdventure
Panasonic Lumix S9 Unboxing
Picked up the Panasonic Lumix S9 as a lightweight option for b-roll and travel photography. It’s compact, budget-friendly, and might just be the perfect landscape companion for when I don’t want to haul a full kit. 🎥 Great for b-roll 📸 Surprisingly capable for landscapes ✈️ Small enough to take anywhere #lumixs9 #cameraunboxing #travelphotography #landscapephotography #brollcamera
Why I Returned the Panasonic Lumix S1RII
I tested the Panasonic Lumix S1RII to see if it could replace my S5IIX. After some real-world use, I made the tough decision to return it. In this video, I share why I chose not to keep it. If you’re a hybrid shooter or solo creator trying to decide, this video might help you. Panasonic Lumix S1RII First Impressions: https://youtu.be/-9i0xCFlqsw San Juan Mountains of Colorado Photo Trip https://youtu.be/in1npI2NR5M CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - The Setup 02:05 - Reason 1: Uncomfortable to Hold 03:24 - Reason 2: Power Hungry Beast 07:31 - Reason 3: Photos Didn't Blow Me Away 08:50 - End of Review and What I Learned 13:10 - Wrap Up and Thank You! #PanasonicLumix #S1RII #camerareview FOLLOW ME! 💬 All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect 🎥 Subscribe for more honest photography gear reviews and creative insights: youtube.com/@ChrisFreitag
Panasonic Lumix S1RII First Impressions and Quick Compare to The Lumix S5IIX
I bought the Panasonic Lumix S1RII in a bit of a panic. With potential tariffs looming and rumors of price hikes, I pulled the trigger faster than I wanted to. In this video, I give my honest first impressions of the S1RII, compare it to the Panasonic S5IIX, and share why I ended up selling the rest of my Fujifilm gear to make it happen. (UPDATE May-11-2025) The overheating issue I experienced is a known issue. Here are the list of Panasonic-approved SD Cards and CF Express Type B Cards: https://av.jpn.support.panasonic.com/support/global/cs/dsc/connect/sd/dc_s1rm2.html And here are some links to some cards that are on the list: (affiliate links, they do not cost you any more but provide me with some financial support) Lexar Professional Silver: https://amzn.to/4m9ElUb Lexar Professional Diamond: https://amzn.to/4d9YvcF Prograde Iridium: https://amzn.to/4dmuarG Prograde Cobalt: https://amzn.to/3YEoaEq Sandisk Extreme Pro: https://amzn.to/4d7PIYI I talk about: - Why I rushed to buy the S1RII - How it stacks up against the S5IIX in both video and photography - My overheating issue while filming in 6.2K open gate If you’re deciding between the Panasonic S1RII and S5II/S5IIX, or you’re curious how it compares to Fujifilm gear like the X-T5, this one’s for you. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Overheating Issue 02:29 - Similarities and Differences 05:08 - Both Great Cameras FOLLOW ME! 💬 All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect 🎥 Subscribe for more honest photography gear reviews and creative insights: youtube.com/@ChrisFreitag LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #PanasonicS1RII #photographygear#camerareview #PanasonicS5IIX #LumixS1R2
New Leica Q3 owners, watch before you update firmware. #leicaq3 #leicacamera
If you’re new to Leica, they update firmware differently. Before you update, save your settings as a User Profile! That way when you run the update and it asks if you want to save your profile to the SD Card, you can say YES and then import all your settings after the update. Or you can start brand new, maybe that's your thing. 😊
One-Button Video Setup for the S5IIX 🎥
No more plugging in cables or setting things up from scratch—this is my streamlined Panasonic S5IIX rig with SSD recording, a Sennheiser mic, and a flip-and-go workflow. Perfect for quick vlogs and thoughts on the fly.
#leicacamera released a new Leica Look today called Teal. I love the blues!!!
Leica released a new Leica Look in their Leica FOTOS app. The look is called Teal and I love it because it reminds me of Classic Neg. on Fujifilm cameras.
Leica Q3 Accessories I Find Useful
In this video, I’m sharing the accessories I personally use with my Leica Q3, and why I think each one adds real value to the shooting experience. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:17 - Shutter Button and Quick Disclaimer 01:09 - Titanium Quick Release and Clever Supply Co. Camera Strap 02:57 - Unofficial Leica Thumb Support 03:53 - Everyday Shortstache Filter 05:14 - Breakthrough Filters 49 to 67mm Step Up Ring 06:28 - Helium Design Lab H3 Grip 09:50 - Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L 10:36 - Zeniko ZF08 Flash 12:22 - Few Extras 13:11 - Wrap Up ⸻ 🎒 Gear & Accessories Mentioned 🟢 Non-Affiliate Links • Clever Supply Co. Minimal Camera Strap: https://cleversupply.co/products/minimal-camera-strap?variant=37049894011039 • Clever Supply Co. Anchor Wrist Strap (Peak Design AL): https://cleversupply.co/products/anchor-wrist-camera-strap-peak?variant=33874915754119 • Helium Design Labs H3 Grip (by Ed Palisoc & Hugh Brownstone): https://www.heliumlab.design/shop/p/leica-q3-hg-he3 • Leica BP-SCL6 Extra Battery: https://leicacamerausa.com/leica-lithium-ion-battery-bp-scl6-for-q3-and-q2.html 🛒 Affiliate Links (thank you for supporting the channel!) • Leica Q3: https://amzn.to/4cIjhzO • Shutter Button: https://amzn.to/3GqQPq5 • Titanium Quick Release Lugs: https://amzn.to/4jG29xa • PolarPro Shortstache Filter (49mm): https://amzn.to/4cCmTTW • Leica Q3 Thumb Support (Black): https://amzn.to/4jXsR4D • Breakthrough Tech 49–67mm Step-Up Ring: https://amzn.to/3Y6XA6B • PolarPro 67mm ND8/PL Filter: https://amzn.to/3Gh9iFJ • Zeniko ZF08 Flash: https://amzn.to/4lT096L • Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L: https://amzn.to/3Gej77r • Lexar UHS-II 250MB/s SD Card: https://amzn.to/42JXtj4 ⸻ 🎥 Subscribe for more Leica Q3 content, street photography, and minimalist camera gear reviews. Leave a comment if you’ve found any accessories that changed your Leica Q experience—I’d love to hear what’s in your kit. FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #LeicaQ3 #LeicaAccessories #CameraGear #StreetPhotographySetup #LeicaStreetPhotography #Q3Setup #PhotographyAccessories #LeicaCamera
One Camera, One Lens - E9 - Leica Q3 and Summilux 28 f1.7 ASPH
In Episode 9 of One Camera, One Lens, I take the Leica Q3 with its stunning Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens to the heart of Denver, Colorado for some black and white street photography during the Rockies’ season home opening weekend. This shoot marks a big personal step in my street photography journey, while wandering around Coors Field, a few people approached and asked me to take their photo. It was my first real interaction like this, and it helped push me outside my comfort zone. I’m usually a quiet observer, but this moment was a reminder of how photography can connect people. The episode wraps with a slow walk through Union Station, where I explored more abstract compositions in the shifting light. If you enjoy Leica street photography, candid moments, and the energy of city life, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. 📸 Camera & Lens: Leica Q3 – Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH Affiliate link, if you buy one it doesn't cost you extra but I get a little bit of money https://amzn.to/4crcQBe 🎥 Shot on: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Affiliate link, if you buy one it doesn't cost you extra but I get a little bit of money https://amzn.to/4ltnz2j CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:37 - I Meet Some People Who Want a Some Photos 02:38 - Around Coors Field 04:15 - Around Union Station 🎵 Music licensed via Audiio Artist: Native Culture Track: Heaven (Instrumental) 👇 Subscribe for more episodes of One Camera, One Lens https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPX-eJBExfUNe0h0LeyJaDhEogV229cv0 I shoot with a single setup in each episode, exploring different places and styles—from street to landscape, candid to abstract. LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #LeicaQ3 #StreetPhotography #PhotoWalk #OneCameraOneLens #Leica28mm #DenverPhotography #BlackAndWhiteStreet #UnionStationDenver #CoorsField #LeicaSummilux #StreetPortraits #LeicaCamera #LeicaStreetPhotography
How I Use My Lochby Mini Field Journal
This is a follow-up to my first video about journaling: https://youtu.be/OckQw-31ni4 In this video, I dive into how I actually journal on a daily basis. After sharing why journaling matters, many of you asked about the specific things I write, so here’s a look at my simple, personal journaling process. Research links: -- Psychological Science Study (https://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/releases/take-notes-by-hand-for-better-long-term-comprehension.html) -- NIH Study on Note-Taking (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8222525/) Capturing ideas – I walk through specific examples of recent thoughts and concepts I’ve written down. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - The Lochby Mini Field Journal 02:08 - Take Notes 03:40 - Capture Ideas 05:21 - Doodle 06:25 - Digital Journaling 07:28 - Why Didn't I Do This Sooner? 09:21 - Conclusion ⸻ Non-Affiliate Link: - Lochby Mini Field Journal (not sponsored) https://www.lochby.com/collections/journals/products/mini-field-journal Affiliate links: (Disclaimer: I get a few cents if you use these links but it does not cost you extra) - Fisher Space Pen https://amzn.to/3R0M7l9 - Field Notes | Expedition Edition https://amzn.to/4iKYLRs - Field Notes | Dotted https://amzn.to/43x73aX - Moleskine Cahier Journal https://amzn.to/4iVETeD FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #journaling #howtojournal #journalideas #creativethinking #handwrittennotes #lochby #paperjournaling #analogtools #notetaking #dailyjournaling #mindfulness #doodling #digitalminimalism
TTArtisan 50mm f2 & 23mm f1.4 – The Modern Vintage Lens Experience (Fujifilm X-Mount)
In this video, I compare the TTArtisan 50mm f2 and TTArtisan 23mm f1.4 lenses for Fujifilm X-mount — but not against modern autofocus glass. Instead, I make the case that these affordable, manual focus lenses are more fairly compared to vintage lenses like the Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 for the Pentax Spotmatic. Both TTArtisan lenses feature an all-metal build, clicky aperture rings, and a heft that reminds me of classic legacy glass. The image quality? Dreamy, character-filled, and definitely reminiscent of the vintage look many photographers chase. If you’re looking to improve your manual focusing skills or just want that retro aesthetic without the hassle of hunting down well-preserved vintage lenses, these might be the perfect option. Lenses Featured: • TTArtisan 50mm f2 • TTArtisan 23mm f1.4 • Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 (Vintage Reference) Topics Covered: • Build quality & handling • Image samples • Comparison to vintage lenses • Why these are great for manual focus training Shot on: Fujifilm X-series camera Perfect for: Fujifilm shooters, manual focus lovers, vintage lens fans, and budget-conscious creators. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Compare to Vintage Glass 02:07 - Photo Samples 02:42 - Easy to Work With 03:43 - Great Start to Manual Lenses 04:48 - Wrap AFFILIATE LINKS: (they give me a little boost but don't cost you any extra) Buy direct from TTArtisan: https://ttartisan.store/?ref=abivfwaq Amazon: TTArtisan 50mm f2: https://amzn.to/3DTZ5hJ (on sale as of 3/28/2025) Amazon: TTArtisan 23mm f1.4: Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FILzhz (on sale as of 3/28/2025) LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #ttartisan #fujifilm #manualfocus #vintagelenses #ttartisan50mmf2 #ttartisan23mmf1.4 #fujifilmlenses #supertakumar #filmlook #budgetphotography #lensreview
Letting Go of Instagram
I don't mean to ride Peter McKinnon's coattails on this one but I had already deleted Instagram and was planning on making a video about it when he posted his video ( https://youtu.be/VnZGj_x4RsE?si=eiEa4q4qHbGKtANS ). But I whole-heartedly agree with him, it's time to let it go. I'm a big advocate of Glass ( https://glass.photo) but recognize that it doesn't have a business function yet. Great for inspiration though. LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! MUSIC: Platform: Audiio Artist: Free As A Bird Song Name: I Lift My Eyes Up (Instrumental) Link: https://audiio.com/free-bird/free-bird/i-lift-my-eyes-instrumental
My First Leica
After dreaming about owning a Leica for most of my adult life, I finally bought the Leica Q3. In this video, I share my first impressions after a couple of months of real-world use. This isn’t a technical deep-dive or full review—but a personal perspective on what it’s like to finally shoot with a Leica. Why now? I just completed a 365-day photo project, I’m turning 50 this year, and it felt like the right moment to invest in a camera I’ve always admired. Spoiler: it’s lived up to the hype. The build quality is exceptional—solid metal, beautifully crafted, and thoughtfully designed. The 28mm Summilux lens is absolutely stunning, producing images that are both tack-sharp and subtly soft, with gorgeous rendering and micro-contrast. It’s honestly the best lens I’ve ever shot with. I also talk about why I chose the 28mm Q3 over the 43mm Q2 and how cropping to a 35mm field of view works perfectly for my shooting style. Topics Covered: • Why I bought the Leica Q3 • First impressions after 2 months • Build quality & lens performance • Image samples & shooting experience • 28mm vs 35mm field of view (and why I didn’t wait for a 43mm) Shot on: Leica Q3 Perfect for: Street photography, documentary, travel, and everyday storytelling. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:19 - Full On Justification 04:26 - Why I Went with the 28mm Over the 43mm 06:18 - Feared I Made a Mistake 08:09 - First Impressions 10:36 - This Lens is Incredible 12:31 - Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you! #LeicaQ3 #LeicaCamera #LeicaReview #FirstLeica #LeicaImpressions #StreetPhotography #Leica28mm #LeicaSummilux #LeicaLove #LeicaVibes #LeicaQSeries
Foggy Morning Photography
In this video share some #photography from this morning's heavy fog over Denver. I also wanted to give a quick update to subscribers of the channel that I haven't forgotten the channel, I have just been a little busy the last month. LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
My New Notebook for #journaling
Taking my note…taking 😉 to another level with the Lochby Mini Field Journal. Well made and durable material, thisis a journaling system that will last
Fujifilm X-T50 Review: The Essence of Fujifilm!
The Fujifilm X-T50 is every bit as capable as the X-T5 but in a much smaller and more pocketable package. Having the 40 megapixel sensor in a camera this small is an absolute delight. This is pure Fujifilm. I have a companion blog piece, if you’d prefer to read about it. https://medium.com/freiblog/fujifilm-x-t50-review-the-essence-of-fujifilm-1fc9665e5b53 CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:24 - Not Another Backstory 05:23 - Strengths 09:58 - Weaknesses 14:11 - Photography Samples AFFILIATE LINKS: (they give me a little boost but don't cost you any extra) Fujifilm X-T50 Body Only - https://amzn.to/3F6Ejfs Fujifilm XF27mmF2.8 R WR - https://amzn.to/4jbVBWb Hoage thumb grip - https://amzn.to/3ZuMDwa FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Top 5 Things I Learned From My 365 Project
In this video I talk about the 5 most important things that I learned in the process of taking a photo every day for 365 days. The leap year in 2024 allowed me the time to make this video as the final piece of this project. CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction 01:54 - #1: There's Always a Photo 03:09 - #2: This is For Me 05:25 - #3: The Settings Don't Matter 07:50 - #4: The Times You Don't Want To, Is When You Should 09:56 - #5: I Love Doing This 11:45 - Wrap Up LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Full Frame vs APS-C: I was WRONG!
You ever go out with a plan and then have everything you thought you were going to discover turn out to be completely wrong? Well that is what happened here and I put it all out there for you to see. There is a difference the 24MP Full-Frame sensor of the Panasonic Lumix S5IIX and the 40MP APS-C sensor of the Fujifilm X-T5, but I don't want to spoil it here. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:08 - The Cameras and Lenses 00:45 - Taking the Photos 02:41 - Side By Side Comparisons 09:48 - Conclusion: There's a Difference 11:46 - Little Extra LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Panasonic Lumix S5IIX: Why I Switched from Fujifilm (for video)
Don't worry, I'm still using Fujifilm and all those wonderful lenses for photography, but in this video I explain why I switched from the Fujifilm X-H2 to the Panasonic Lumix S5IIX…for video. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:23 - Problem 1: Focus Breathing 03:23 - Problem 2: Grading F-Log2 04:57 - First Impressions: Look and Feel 06:16 - First Impressions: Video Features 09:17 - First Impressions: IBIS Test for vlogging 13:06 - Last Bits & Final Thoughts FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Peter McKinnon 25L Every Day Backpack: What I Have, Why I Have It, and How I Use It
I go into some detail about how I pack out my Nomatic Peter McKinnon 25L Everyday Backpack with all the gear I need for landscape photography and video work. My thanks to Manfrotto for sending me the BeFree Advanced Carbon Fiber Arca Swiss travel tripod Learn more here: https://www.manfrotto.com/us-en/befree-advanced-as-twist-carbon-tripod-mkbfrtc4fb-bh/?___store=manfrotto_us_en Link to my review of the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Aluminum travel tripod: https://youtu.be/miSFu3CR8bQ CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - The Backpack 02:29 - The Lighter Stuff 04:07 - The Gear 07:58 - The Loft Area 09:17 - The Tripods 13:41 - Wrap Up AFFILIATE LINKS: (they give me a little boost but don't cost you any extra) Neewer iPhone 16 Pro Cage - https://amzn.to/4mrMljL Peter McKinnon Everyday Backpack - https://amzn.to/436WPxo Hero Clip - https://amzn.to/4dzEkp0 PGYTech Mounting Plate - https://amzn.to/3FolFQ9 PGYTech Beetle Camera Clip - https://amzn.to/3F2MyJu Smallrig Multitool - https://amzn.to/4jim1Wx Smallrig Friction Arm - https://amzn.to/3H2dHN1 K&F Concept Air Blower - https://amzn.to/4mKi7c3 Ulanzi LED Video Light - https://amzn.to/3H4PsxQ FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Fujifilm XF 70-300mm: My Surprise Lens of the Summer!
The Fujifilm XF 70-300mm F4-5.6 R LM OIS WR lens turned out to be a total surprise this summer, quickly becoming a favorite in my kit. Its compact, lightweight design makes it ideal for both landscape and everyday photography, fitting easily into my bag and delivering impressive results without the bulk. The sharpness and versatility across the zoom range are perfect for capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to spontaneous moments. With reliable optical image stabilization and weather resistance, it’s a high-performing lens that punches above its weight in more ways than one. I also wrote a blog post with more sample images: https://blog.chrisfreitag.com/fujifilm-xf70-300mmf4-5-6-r-lm-ois-wr-review-f7ef336729a7 CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:19 - Surprise Lens of the Summer 01:28 - Really Not That Big 02:32 - Unexpected Results 03:52 - If I have one issue… 04:44 - The Switches on the Lens 05:30 - Sample Photos 07:02 - Closing Thoughts JOIN ME ON PATREON You can help support the channel by joining me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/ChrisFreitag FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
iPhone 16 Pro from a Fujifilm Perspective
I'm taking a look at the Camera Control and Photographic Styles with Tone Control on the iPhone 16 Pro. I'm not reviewing any other part of this new iPhone because this is the most important change to me. I'm not even getting into the 4K/120 for slow motion because this video is all about iPhone photography from the perspective of a Fujifilm user. CHAPTERS 00:00 - Welcome 01:15 - The Camera Control Button 03:38 - Photographic Styles and Tone Control 06:28 - Samples and Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Why I Keep Coming Back to the Mountains | Landscape Photography Story
I took my camera to the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado for a few nights of photography. I'm chasing the Milky Way, exploring The Million Dollar Highway, and looking for moments of quiet in the wild. I didn’t capture everything I set out to, but what I found instead was just as meaningful. The highlight: a few shots of the Milky Way outside of Ridgway (yes, that’s the correct spelling — no “e”). My landscape photography is still a work in progress, but every step of this trip was worth it. I hope you enjoy coming along for the journey. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Welcome 02:41 - Ridgway & The Milky Way 05:21 - Ouray & The Million Dollar Highway 11:23 - Silverton & The Swiss Alps of the U.S. 17:50 - Drone Footage & What I Learned 20:16 - I'd Like to Learn 21:49 - Sunday & The Trip Home 24:28 - Thank You FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect #landscapephotography #coloradophotography #sanjuanmountains #milkywayphotography
VND + CPL on Voigtlander 18mm on Fujifilm X-T50
I got a #neewer variable neutral density (VND) plus circular polarizer filter for the #voigtlander 18mm f2.8 for #fujifilm
Early morning #photography drive around #denver
Driving around Denver, taking photos, during the dark of the morning, into the twilight, into dawn.
Morning photo walk with the Fujifilm X-T50 and XF35mmF1.4 R in Denver
Walking around #denver on Sunday morning with the #fujifilmxt50 and #xf35mm lens
Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Travel Tripod Review
In this video, I’m testing the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Aluminum Travel Tripod and comparing it to the Ulanzi Zero Y travel tripod to see the major differences between the two philosophies behind each company's take on the travel tripod. NON-AFFILIATE LINKS Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Aluminum Travel Tripod https://www.manfrotto.com/us-en/befree-advanced-aluminum-travel-tripod-twist-red-ball-head-mkbfrta4rd-bhus/ Ulanzi Zero Y Travel Tripod https://www.ulanzi.com/collections/travel-tripods/products/ulanzi-coman-lightweight-travel-tripod CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:22 - Two Tripods 01:20 - Tripod Size 02:21 - Twist Lock Legs 03:21 - Manfrotto 494 Center Ball Head 05:29 - M-Lock System 07:17 - The Legs & Feet 07:43 - Fitting In a Bag 08:12 - Extra Features 10:04 - Inverting the Tripod 10:21 - Last Thought on Size 10:35 - Conclusion: Positives 11:21 - Conclusion: Things to Improve 13:07 - Portable. Sturdy. Easy to Setup. 14:05 - Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Sounds of the Driving Rain
Went out to capture some images of the rain and got caught in some heavy rain. My Pocket 3 didn’t capture any of the lightning going on but captured the sound of the rain just fine.
First flight with the #djimini4k
My first outing with the DJI Mini 4K and this thing is ridiculously fun.
New-to-me #camera day! The #Olympus Pen EE half-frame film camera
I got the Olympus Pen EE off eBay and it was delivered today. Quick unboxing and loading film video.
Voigtlander 18mm F2.8 Full Review
I received a lot of questions over the course of the last 6 months of posting images taken with this Voigtlander Color Skopar 18mm F2.8 Aspherical lens for Fujifilm X-Mount. In this video, I try to answer the most burning questions I've received. Links to my first impressions and unboxing videos: First Impressions: https://youtu.be/4UrNSgBRMak Unboxing: https://youtu.be/ti9pZs8A0xE CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - How Do I Like This Lens? 05:00 - How It Does It Feel to Use? 06:30 - How Are the Photos? 08:15 - What About The Tech Specs? 10:34 - Does It Resolve the 40MP Sensor? 12:55 - Would You Recommend This Lens? 15:18 - Quick Wrap and Update On Release Times JOIN ME ON PATREON You can help support the channel by joining me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/ChrisFreitag FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Learn How to Control the Light Using Aperture and Shutter Speed
Quick tip for getting more from a bright, colorful scene you might find, like sunrises and sunsets. This is a tip for beginners or hobbyists that want to get away from auto settings and capture the color you see in the sky but is lost when taking a photo in auto mode. Hopefully you find it helpful! 00:00 - Intro 00:31 - How I Like Sunsets and Sunrises to Look 01:47 - ND Filter Led the Way 03:10 - Aperture Plus Shutter Speed 06:35 - Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
My First Two Months Returning to Film with Ilford HP5 Plus 400 and Kodak Ultramax 400
My first two months of film photography with the Asahi Pentax Spotmeter camera, shooting on Ilford HP5 Plus 400 and Kodak UltraMax 400 film. And here's that previous video about when I received the film camera. Giving Film a Shot: The Pentax Spotmatic II Camera https://youtu.be/0DFCCg-hn9k CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro 01:11 - Knocking The Rust Off 03:34 - Color Film & Nostalgia 05:46 - More Practice and The Call of Film 09:25 - The Downsides of Film 11:15 - Comparing Digital to Film 13:43 - My Plan Going Forward JOIN ME ON PATREON You can help support the channel by joining me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/ChrisFreitag FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
Quick Look at the #manfrotto befree #travel #tripod
Milestone for my channel! My first gifted item in exchange for a review.
My Journaling Set Up with the Lochby Pocket Journal
I have taken to journaling as an act of simplifying, and keeping myself away from screens, as well as to get my thoughts out of my head. And this journey has been meaningful. I'm surprised at how much I learn from simply writing my thoughts out. And this Lochby Pocket Journal has been a useful carrying journal for my pocket notebooks and tools. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:21 - The Lochby Pocket Journal and Notebooks 01:07 - The Storage Box and Notebooks I Use 01:50 - Not Quite a Daily Carry 02:12 - The Power of Journaling 04:00 - Also Doing Line Art 04:55 - What to Write? 05:20 - The Tools I Take Along 06:37 - Highly Recommended NON-AFFILIATE LINKS: Lochby Pocket Journal: https://www.lochby.com/collections/journals/products/pocket-journal ATech 7-in-1 Multitool Pen: https://atechgo.com/products/multifunction-pen-black AFFILIATE Links: Moleskine Cahier Notebook: https://amzn.to/4jHi7HF Afterplug 40gbps short USB-C cable: https://amzn.to/4iBMTAk JOIN ME ON PATREON You can help support the channel by joining me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/ChrisFreitag FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
The Fujifilm XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR Review - A Wonderfully Boring Lens
I had some trouble making this review of the Fujifilm XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR because it's mostly what you expect it to be. It's large, it's expensive, and the images are great! So how do you review a lens that you already have some idea how it performs? Well, that is the tricky part. In this video I talk about some of the reasons I was drawn to this lens, including how I feel about the 35mm-equivalent focal length. I also give some samples of the images I am able to get. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - About the Lens 02:19 - My Biggest Gripe 04:39 - The Performance, Weather Sealing 05:39 - The Performance, Focus 07:33 - The Performance, F1.4 09:20 - The Performance, Video 09:57 - The Images 12:29 - Final Thoughts on the Lens 13:38 - Update on the Channel JOIN ME ON PATREON You can help support the channel by joining me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/ChrisFreitag FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Please visit https://www.chrisfreitag.com to view my portfolio and contact me about your photography or YouTube collaboration idea. I look forward to hearing from you!
One Camera, One Lens - E8 - Fujifilm X-T5 and Voigtlander Color Skopar 18mm F2.8
Loaded up the Portra 800 film recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5 with the Voigtländer COLOR SKOPAR 18mm F2.8 lens and took to the streets of Denver. Put my DJI Osmo Pocket 3 in wearable mode and found myself at the Pets & Pride Market on June 29th, 2024. In the spirit of using the film recipe as it was intended, I even set my ISO dial to 800. The only things I changed were the aperture and shutter speed, everything else was set (like film). Portra 800 recipe from @fujixweekly: https://fujixweekly.com/2024/02/14/kodak-portra-800-v3-fujifilm-x-t5-x-trans-v-x-e4-x-trans-iv-film-simulation-recipe/ This is the 8th video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
#photography drive through #boulder canyon and #boulderfalls
Driving though Boulder Canyon with my #fujifilmxt5 and #23mm lens. Discovered there’s a very accessible Boulder Falls right off the road…if you know it’s there.
How I Edit Photos Using Lightroom on iPad
In this video I talk about how I keep the editing process simple, so that I don’t have to spend hours with each photo I take.. While I demonstrate #editing #photography on an #ipadpro2024 in #lightroom - these techniques can be used on any computer or device in any editing app that allows you to change exposure (brightness), contrast, highlights, and shadows. 00:00 - Intro 01:37 - Editing on an iPad 02:51 - Editing in Lightroom 06:06 - Where People Go Wrong 07:58 - Another Example FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Get Out
If you love #photography or making #video for #youtube or whatever, but you have trouble motivating yourself, I’m living proof you can change things.
Why You Should Print Your Photography
Many people over the years have told me that I should print my work and for some reason, I never did. But I finally chose some photos I like and got them printed out and I simply can't express how meaningful it is to get them back from the printer and enjoy them, away from the computer. It's worth the cost, it's worth the effort. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 00:40 The Six Photos 03:37 How These Make Me Feel 05:27 Post Script FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
My first roll of film was garbage! #filmphotography #film
Took some Ilford HP5 400 plus film out this morning to try out the new-to-me Pentax Spotmatic camera. Little did I know how right I was that my first roll of film would be garbage.
Giving Film a Shot: The Pentax Spotmatic II Camera
I was just gifted this excellent and beautifully-maintained Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II film camera and I'm very excited to try it out! It's been a long time since I last shot film, I was just a kid in high school. But #filmphotography is a great way for me to test weather or not digital photography is giving me an added boost. Read more about the Pentax Spotmatic here: https://casualphotophile.com/2017/10/18/pentax-spotmatic-camera-review-one-of-the-longest-lived-mechanical-cameras-ever-made/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 - What's Going On? 01:11 - Getting the Camera 03:05 - The Pentax Spotmatic II 35mm Camera 04:41 - Lenses & Accessories 08:13 - The Plan and Next Steps 09:22 - Wrap It Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Welcome to My Channel! (Channel Trailer)
Welcome to my YouTube channel about #photography and how I am using #fujifilm for photography and for running this channel. I'm on a journey to grow as a photographer and learn how to create videos worth your time. Please follow along! You can find the longer cut of this video here: The Old Channel Trailer: Extended Version https://youtu.be/XNOYvFpmYFE FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
The Old Channel Trailer: Extended Version
This is the old trailer for my photography channel, I blew the assignment. I'm keeping this here for posterity. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:48 - Why Do I Have a Channel? 01:43 - What to Expect From Me 02:49 - I Will Talk About Gear 03:36 - It's About Photography 06:34 - Moving Forward is the Point of This Channel FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Brief observations of the new M4 iPad Pro #ipadpro2024
The space black aluminum on the new M4 iPad Pro is more like the aluminum on the midnight blue M2 MacBook Air than the space black aluminum on the M3 MacBook Pros.
One Camera, One Lens - E7 - Fujifilm X-T5 and XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR
In Episode 7 I take my #Fujifilm X-T5 and #23mm lens out into the rain. It was pouring at first but I didn't care because my lens and body are both weather sealed (although I took care to protect it from the real heavy rain) This is the 7th video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only.
Crossed paths with a #fox while walking the #dog today
Poor dog wanted to go get that fox! And that fox sat down and watched.
5 Things That Make YouTube Worth It - And It's Not Money
I've been doing this for about 18 months, I have just crossed the 1,000-subscriber mark, and I've had a lot of ups and downs. But even though it's difficult to produce these videos and even though there have been times where I felt like giving up, I have 5 good reasons that make having a #youtube channel worth it in 2024. I was on a podcast! Tom Anderson and Jeff Battersby asked me to join the Basic AF: a (mostly) tech podcast for the April 29, 2024 episode. https://www.basicafshow.com/ My episode https://www.basicafshow.com/2086252/14970199-apple-event-the-state-of-the-ipad-and-a-love-of-photography-with-chris-freitag CHAPTERS 00:00 - Start 01:30 - Intro 02:59 - Learning New Things 04:35 - Gives Me Motivation 06:10 - Better at My Job 08:29 - I've Met People 09:49 - The Algorithm FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Don’t pay it forward! 🤣 #coffee
The “gentleman in front of you” paid for my coffee this morning at Starbucks. When I tried to pay it forward, she shot me down!
New Firmware Update! #fujifilm
April 25th, 2024 and #fujifilm release firmware updates for several new cameras including the #xh2 - They added a red box around the screen when you're recording video, so you can easily see it's recording from across the room. And they added the ability to transfer RAW files from the camera to your phone using the XApp.
My Two Primes for Everyday Photography
After trying to find a middle ground between taking the most minimal kit possible and packing nearly everything I have, I discovered there are 2 lenses I reach for when I want to go out with my X-H2 for everyday photography. I use the Fujifilm XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR and the Viltrox AF 75/1.2 XF lenses that are far enough apart to meet completely different needs. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:18 - What I use for street, what I use for landscape 00:50 - This other kind of photography 01:22 - Putting the kit together 01:56 - The XF23mmF1.4 R LM WR 02:53 - The Viltrox AF 75/1.2 FX 04:07 - The sling bag I use 05:56 - The benefit of having such different focal lengths 06:40 - Ready to get out there FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Took my new 2024 #vw Atlas Peak Edition out for a proper test drive
Took my new 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Peak Edition out on some backcountry roads this weekend. Also played with some different angles with my DJI Pocket 3
Voigtländer COLOR SKOPAR 18mm F2.8 aspherical X-Mount - First Impressions
2 weeks ago I unboxed this 18mm lens for Fujifilm and since then I've put it through its paces. I have some initial thoughts on the Voigtländer Color Skopar 18mm f2.8 lens for Fujifilm. If it's too long and you don't want to watch it, I like it. I like it a lot. Direct link to the lens: https://www.voigtlaender.de/lenses/x-mount/18-mm-128-color-skopar/?lang=en Direct link to #alpakagear 1.6L Go Sling Nano https://alpakagear.com/products/go-sling-nano CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:33 - My Lens Lineup for the X-Pro3 01:37 - Why I Don't Mind F2.8 02:05 - Build Quality 02:36 - Focus Ring 03:34 - Focus Ring Tab is Hard to Find 04:09 - 365 Project and EDC 05:20 - Sample Images and My Struggle with 28mm 08:40 - Feedback From Lens to Camera 08:58 - Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
My new Circular Polarizing Lens (CPL) filter for my #fujifilm lenses
This is an excerpt from my earlier video this morning. https://youtu.be/fBO6sPysXmo
Make The Right Choice Before Stepping Out: Is Today For Photos Or Videos?
I took my Fujifilm X-H2 and my DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to the mountains for a photography video…or did I want to talk about my CPL filter? Whatever I was trying, it soon became clear that I didn't have a plan. And as I was driving, I was reminded of something I just watched with some good advice about choosing to go out with either video or photography as the plan, but not both. Once I settled in on that idea, I discovered why I went to the mountains that day. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - A Simple Photo Vlog 00:44 - No, I’ll Talk About My CPL 01:21 - Now I Know What I Want to Say 02:04 - Still Want to Make Photos 03:21 - Why Am I Doing This? 04:06 - Some Lucky Photography 04:59 - Wrapping it Up FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
#Unboxing the #Voigtlander 18mm F2.8 For #fujifilm
Just in from Japan! Can't wait to try it out.
Unboxing the Voigtlander Color-skopar 18mm F2.8 X Mount Lens!
Update: now available at B&H and other U.S. retailers. Not yet available in the United States, I had to turn to eBay to find the Voigtlander COLOR-SKOPAR 18mmF2.8 lens for the Fujifilm X-Mount. Luckily I found a vendor from Japan who had good ratings and shocked me when I got this lens only 1 week after purchase. This is my unboxing video only, I'll do a follow up first impressions video soon. Stay tuned! Voigtlander web site: https://www.voigtlaender.de/lenses/x-mount/18-mm-128-color-skopar/?lang=en CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro and Backstory 00:51 - 18mm Options 01:20 - Voigtlander Announcement 01:53 - Unboxing 03:37 - What's Next FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
My dog had some trouble with all the snow at first, but he figured it out. 😀#denver #snow
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - The Multipurpose Tool for Creators
I can't hide my excitement about the DJI Osmo Pocket 3! I haven't had it long enough to do a proper review but in the short amount of time I've had it, I've gone on vacation to Hawaii with it, I've taken it on a photography journey around the high plains of the Rocky Mountains, and I've done 5 YouTube Shorts with it. This is much more than a vlogging device, it's a multipurpose tool for creators. There's a reason you see creators like @FaizalWestcott and @JamesPopsysPhoto using this out in the streets more, it's because it's simply easy to use. Link to @ThomasHeatonPhoto review: https://youtu.be/yToLtjkhpOI?si=tbYUuNcmh6GSHUu9 CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Vlogging 02:15 - Vacation in Hawaii 02:27 - Dash Cam 03:21 - In Car Vlogging 03:40 - Wearable Mode 04:20 - D-Log Footage 04:46 - Motion Lapse 05:33 - Makes Everything Easier 05:45 - Mobile App 06:24 - Fun to Use 06:51 - Some Creative Ideas For It 07:17 - It's a Multipurpose Tool 07:36 - Other Reviews 07:48 - A Lot Could Go Wrong 08:28 - Powerful First Impression LINKS (Affiliate Links, they don't cost you any more but give me a little help): PGYTECH MantisPod: https://amzn.to/40YWcEx Neewer Magnetic CPL/ND Filters: https://amzn.to/4mBvxpH Pocket 3 Extension Adapter Mount: https://amzn.to/4lt0uM0 PGYTECH Beetle Clip: https://amzn.to/4lt0uM0 FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
My very first portrait of a stranger!
I did something I e never done today and took a portrait of a complete stranger. I still can’t believe I did it! That I even thought to ask is crazy for me.
One Camera, One Lens - E6 - Fujifilm X-Pro3 and XF27mmF2.8 R WR
I head to Denver's Cherry Creek North shopping district for episode 6 of One Camera, One Lens. This time with the Fujifilm X-Pro 3 and Fujifilm XF27mmF2.8 R WR lens. I was mostly aiming at all the reflections to capture the light from the setting sun. This is the the video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
Use your DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for POV shooting!
I bought a little mount for my camera clip so I could mount the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to my backpack. Works perfectly! Not my main use for the Pocket but it is nice to have. (Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4bQgnIt) Also featured, the interrupting chickens of Kauai!
How I set the DJI Pocket 3 as a dashcam while traveling in Hawaii
Using the DJI Pocket 3 as a dashcam in Kauai, Hawaii to both show my travel footage and creating a driving vlog. It’s mounted using the PGYTECH Mantis Pod Pro and all-in-all a very sturdy and steady solution! Affiliate Links: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - https://amzn.to/42PpcOJ PGYTECH Mantis Pod Pro - https://amzn.to/3UIBkiB PGYTECH Quick Release Plate - https://amzn.to/49rXJ8j
#motionlapse with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3
A couple of weeks ago I tried a motion-lapse with the Insta360 Flow and I failed because the app gave me no directions on which way it would record. Compare that with this one from the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and it is instantly obvious which one worked. The Pocket 3nmade it effortless because you can select LTR or RTL when you’re setting up your timelapse with motion.
Morning fog and first vlog using my new DJI OSMO Pocket 3
Test all sorts of new things this morning. First vlog with the Pocket 3, the low-light performance of the Pocket 3, my fog photography skills. Full review of the DJI OSMO Pocket 3 coming soon.
The Insta360 Flow broke! Got a DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to replace it.
My Insta360 Flow broke and I’m using it as an excuse to get rid of it! My overall experience with the Flow is that it’s clunky, difficult to align the clamp to the phone, difficult to align the phone to the base, and overall just failure after failure. Getting the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to replace it and do the things the Insta360 flow promised it could do.
Why I traded the Fujifilm X-T5 for the Fujifilm X-H2
The ultimate justification video for my Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS)! It was only a year ago that I posted a video about why I went with the Fujifilm X-T5 over the Fujifilm X-H2. All of my reasoning was sound and I was looking for a more photography-first camera. And as I used the camera over the course of the next few months, it proved to be all the camera I'd hoped it would be. But trouble lurked in making videos for this channel and as I started to use my Fujifilm X-Pro3 more for street and every day photography, I realized I had a problem with the X-T5. So I traded it for the X-H2. Did I make a mistake? Find out! Blog Post: https://blog.chrisfreitag.com/the-big-trade-the-fujifilm-x-t5-for-the-x-h2-e6c9beaa2965 CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction 01:06 - The X-T5 04:07 - An Everyday Camera 06:21 - Doubts About Video 08:45 - Trading for the X-H2 10:57 - The X-H2 14:51 - Conclusion FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Taking my Wandrd ROGUE Sling out in the rain and snow. #photography #bagpacking
My other sling bag is the Wandrd ROGUE Sling 6L and it's weather sealed, holds a little more than my Domke bag, and is great for smaller hikes when I don't want to take my whole photography bag with me.
#sunrise with the #insta360flow
Trying out the Insta360 Flow in Santa Barbara, CA for a sunrise time shift. I don't think I got it right but I enjoyed the sunrise regardless!
Why I Choose Fujifilm
As I abandoned Twitter and started joining other social networks, I decided to focus all of my energy on photography, rather than the mundane drivel I would let trickle out of my head like I did on Twitter. Subsequently, I introduced myself on each social network as a photographer out of Denver and that I shoot with Fujifilm and iPhone. I got a lot of questions about why I choose to use Fujifilm. So this is the answer to that question. (Read More: https://blog.chrisfreitag.com/why-i-choose-fujifilm-68d81e2762a8) CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:06 - Why Fujifilm? 00:33 - Sort of Because of This Image 00:52 - 2001 - Fujifilm FinePix 2600Zoom 01:24 - Canon, Then Sony 02:08 - Nikon D40X DSLR 02:41 - 2011 - Fujifilm X10 04:21 - Sony a6000 05:02 - After the Pandemic 06:29 - 2021 - Fujifilm X100V 07:12 - 10 Years Apart 07:30 - I Like Fujijilm Colors 07:55 - If I Ever Choose to Leave 08:42 - Retro Look is Great 09:23 - I Don't Mind the Size Either 09:53 - Disclaimer, It's Not a Fight FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Photography in the deep freeze!
Went out for early morning photography on January 15, 2024 just outside Denver, Colorado because I’m insane. This was during the deep freeze that was covering much of the U.S. in January. I went out for a photo walk to get snow and fog images but the cold was too much.
One Camera, One Lens - E5 - Fujifilm X-Pro3 and XF35mmF1.4 R
For episode 5 I take my Fujifilm X-Pro 3 and Fujifilm XF35mmF1.4 R lens to the theater district in Downtown Denver. I start early in the morning while it's still dark out and make my way up the river toward the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. The early morning and low-light shots were taken hand held on a camera body without IBIS and a lens without any stabilization. So I probably should have take more time but that is the beauty and the pain of photography! This is the the video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
2023 Year in Review: My Best Photography
2023 represented a lot of growth for both my YouTube channel as well as my photography. I present my top 100 photos in chronological order, from beginning to end. They include travel photos to both Washington and California as well as many photos of Colorado and the Denver area. I tried a lot of new things in 2023, including a photography project, astrophotography, and a theme around liminal spaces. But mostly this is my way of saying thank you to everyone who has interacted with me in 2023, I appreciate the support! All photos were taken with my Fujifilm cameras. The early part of the year was with my X-T4 and X100V before moving to the X-T5 and finishing with the X-H2 and X-Pro3. You can view these images at your leisure https://www.chrisfreitag.com/2023-top-100 CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:39 - The Photography" 03:58 - The Backstory of My Favorite 05:26 - Favorite Photo of 2023 05:40 - Outro FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Testing my DIY iPhone 15 Pro Max video rig
Amazon Affiliate links for all the parts: Crucial 2TB Drive https://amzn.to/3RGrxqf Belkin 4-port USB-C hub https://amzn.to/3TISeNw DJI Mic https://amzn.to/3H42Ted Neweer SSD mount bracket https://amzn.to/3GXObp4 Ulanzi phone holder (for Belkin hub) https://amzn.to/3S40G92 PGYTECH MantisPod Pro https://amzn.to/3S0dTQ0
Christmas Eve Snow Storm
Snowing on the morning of December 24, 2023 in Denver, Colorado
One Camera, One Lens - E4 - Fujifilm X-Pro3 and Voigtländer 23mm 1.2
In Episode 4 I take my Fujifilm X-Pro 3 and Voigtländer Nokton 23mm F1.2 X manual focus lens with me around some of the Highlands and River North parts of Denver. I believe I had the Ilford HP5 Plus film recipe dialed in from @FujiXWeekly https://fujixweekly.com/2018/12/01/my-fujifilm-x100f-ilford-hp5-plus-film-simulation-recipe/ I also learned some tough lessons about recording in AppleLog on my iPhone 15 Pro Max without an SSD connected. I am actually shocked that the onboard storage doesn't have a read/write speed fast enough to handle motion but it would appear it's doesn't. I apologize for an warbling and wobbling in the video, I tried to use Davinci Resolve to stabilize it where I could. This is the 4th video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
Silence of Snow & Sound of the River
Snowy morning walking along a river taking photos.
Hohem iSteady MT2 Gimbal First Impressions
Let's try this again. The video I previously made for this gimbal was inaccurate and this video is my real first impressions after learning how to use it. The Hohem iSteady MT2 4-in-1 camera stabilizer gimbal with A.I. Vision Sensor is a great gimbal with great A.I. tracking…if you know how to reset the A.I. to frame you correctly. I cover how to do that and much more in this SECOND first impressions video. The full first version of this video where I was wrong (inaccurate, but fun to watch): https://youtu.be/nfB2YfytZlA CHAPTERS: 00:00 My Apologies 00:17 Backstory (the Insta360 Flow) 01:01 Unboxing and Time Lapse 01:40 First Impressions 03:02 I Was Wrong! You Can Re-Frame the A.I. 04:53 Weight Limit 05:33 Look for Deals! 06:10 It's a Great Gimbal 06:53 Shout Out to Hohem Customer Support 07:24 Thank you! FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
Timelapse clouds over the Tech Center with the #insta360flow and #iphone15promax
A time lapse video of the clouds moving over the Denver Tech Center in Denver, Colorado. Taken on November 16, 2023 with the iPhone 15 Pro Max using the Insta360 Flow. The wind was quite high so the Insta360 Flow was actually wobbling and I was able to correct the stabilization in LumaFusion for iOS.
One Camera, One Lens - E3 - Fujifilm X-H2 and Viltrox AF 75/1.2 XF
Episode 3 takes me to City Park in Denver, Colorado for a walk with my Fujifilm X-H2 and Viltrox 75mm F1.2 telephoto lens. The lens has the equivalent of 112, 113mm on a full frame camera and it's a totally different kind of photography. This was the last weekend of October and the leaves were brightly colored for the fall. This is the 3rd video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD: Don’t Buy!
I don’t know what’s wrong with these SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD drives but they fail.
Viltrox 75mm F1.2 is Pro Level Fun
The Viltrox AF 75mm F1.2 Pro XF lens for Fujifilm isn't new, having come out earlier in 2023, but I only received my copy in August of 2023 and wanted to put it through its paces before putting up this review. The first thing I can say is that the 1.2 aperture is a lot of fun, as you might expect. The images I've gotten with are wonderfully sharp and clear and using the full-frame equivalent of a 110mm lens is just fun. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Justification for This Lens 01:52 - My First Outing and Photos 02:27 - The Deer Photos 03:17 - Same Size as the 16-55F2.8 04:01 - Street Photography and Oddities 04:50 - Build Quality and the AF/MF Switch 05:41 - My Thoughts on Prime Lenses 06:23 - How This Fits in my Kit 07:07 - The Photos I Get 07:21 - Mimicking thee Fujifilm Design FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
One Camera, One Lens - E2 - Fujifilm X-H2 and Viltrox AF 13/1.4 XF
In this episode I go into the night to practice some night and X-Pan-style photography with my 40MP sensor and a wide angle lens. The music is quite different from episode 1 because I wanted something that captured "the night" and thought this did the trick. This is a drive and walk around Broadway, then Belleview, in Denver with the Fujifilm X-H2 and Viltrox 13mm F1.4 lens. This is the 2nd video in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks and/or drives I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
One Camera, One Lens - E1 - Fujifilm X-Pro3 and TTArtisan 50mm F2
An early morning walk around Union Station in downtown Denver with the X-Pro3 and TTArtisan 50mm lens. This is hopefully the first in a series of Point-of-View (POV) photography walks I can do in the time between reviews and other photography topics. There is no talk track, this is instrumental only. FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
Cheap SSD Mount for the #iphone15promax
I found a cheap solution for easily mounting an SSD to your iPhone 15 Pro Max for handheld video. Case: https://amzn.to/46q1ycz Cable: https://amzn.to/3RS9O0w Sleeve: https://amzn.to/3tj3ViH
Fujifilm XF35mmF1.4 R - Long Term Review
I've had the Fujifilm XF35mm1.4 R for nearly a year and I can echo what so many have already said about this lens. It's special. It has character. But what does any of that really mean? In this video I dig into a few of my photos and try to point out parts of the images I think help define what makes gives this lens its character, flaws and all. CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro 01:23 - Photo Breakdown 1 02:41 - Photo Breakdown 2 03:49 - Photo Breakdown 3 04:46 - Photo Breakdown 4 05:45 - And the Rest 06:26 - Form Factor 07:38 - Problems with the Lens 08:57 - Wrap Up FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
Actually, I just have a bad adapter for my DJI Mic #iphone15promax #djimic
UPDATE 09-27-2023 Other people have reported they can use their USB-C adapter for the DJI Mic with their iPhone 15 USB port so it is likely I have a bad adapter. Apologies for the bad information. My DJI Mic didn't work with my new iPhone 15 Pro Max with any of the connections the mic came with. Unfortunately, Apple's own USB-C to Lightning adapter they just released did not work with the lightning connector from DJI. But after some trial and error with all of my cables, I discovered that the USB-C to 3.5mm jack I bought to use headphones with my iPad did the trick!
iPhone 15 Pro Max Unboxing & First Impressions!
I got the new iPhone 15 Pro Max in midnight blue today. In this video I go through the ritual of unboxing my latest gadget, giving you my first impressions, and also explaining why I specifically wanted to upgrade this year for using the cameras for this channel. I give a sneak peak into the project I'm going to be doing next week for fall colors where I'll put the iPhone next to the Fujifilm X-H2 for photography and videography of the Northern Rockies of Colorado. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:26 - Why I Chose Blue 01:17 - Comparing to the iPhone 14 Pro Max 02:53 - The Plan for My Cameras 03:58 - X-H2 and iPhone Comparison Retreat 04:24 - What Would You Want to Test? FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag
What's in my Camera Bag for Landscape Photography
Welcome! For those of you new here or others who may not know, I practice photography in Colorado and enjoy landscape photography just as much as I enjoy street photography. They provide different kinds of joy and I love finding new gear that helps me do it better or have less to carry. When it comes to landscape photography, I usually have to bring more with me due to the unknown nature of walking into…well…nature! I'll list below all of the gear I talk about in the video. These are affiliate links but rest assured, I haven't made any money from any link as of yet. I have them there more to get you to the product quickly and maybe I'll make a few cents if you pick something up. :) CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro 00:34 - Camera Clip! 01:10 - The Video Setup (Whoops) 02:14 - The PGYTech OneMo Bag 03:05 - Tripod, Battery, and Extras 03:55 - Inside the Bag 05:05 - Inside the "Stuff" Bag 06:21 - Little Stuff I Forgot to Mention 08:04 - Thank You! FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag GEAR - LEOFOTO VD-02 Monopod Support Tripod Base https://amzn.to/3ZaHo3o - K&F S210 Tripod (for the Monopod) https://amzn.to/44QtdSm - PGYTECH Arca Swiss compatible quick release https://amzn.to/3EzdNY7 - PGYTECH Bag Strap Camera Clip https://amzn.to/3Li4bF4 - PGYTECh OneMo Camera Bag https://amzn.to/4679dw6 - Insta360 Flow Camera Gimbal https://amzn.to/460mlmq - DJI Mic https://amzn.to/4679rDs - Peak Design Slide Camera Strap https://amzn.to/3Pwius2 - Anker 20000mAh Battery https://amzn.to/3PwZolk - Fujifilm X-H2 Camera https://amzn.to/3PyBtlE - Fujifilm XF16-55mmF2.8 LM R WR Lens https://amzn.to/3PAyB81 - Fujifilm XF27mmF2.8 LM R WR Lens https://amzn.to/3r19rWH - Viltrox AF 13/1.4 XF Lens https://amzn.to/3RgoEh7 - Viltrox AF 75/1.2 XF Pro Lens https://amzn.to/3RgTBSb - Matador Packable Beach Towel https://amzn.to/44Lgkcm - Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp https://amzn.to/45JATaw - Small Rig Folding Tool https://amzn.to/3sTdiFw - Leatherman Rebar Multitool https://amzn.to/3sTdiFw - Ulanzi RGB Travel Light https://amzn.to/3Zs5uXT - Ulanzi Zero-Y Carbon Fiber Tripod (Isn't on Amazon, probably because it's identical to the Peak Design tripod at half the price, I ordered mine direct) https://www.ulanzi.com/products/ulanzi-coman-lightweight-travel-tripod
Landscape photography around the bend of the South Platte River in Colorado. #photography #fujifilm
OWC Thunderbolt Pro Dock in 36 seconds!
Quick overview of the OWC Thunderbolt Pro Dock. My early impressions are that it solved my dongles problem and now I have easy access to a CF Express Type B slot for my Fujifilm X-H2 video. The 10GB Ethernet is also welcome, connected to my NAS. It is so much faster than over my WiFi network. All in all, worth the money for my needs.
Voigtländer 23 mm F1.2 Nokton X-Mount - Manual Mode
In this video I talk about learning how to slow down and use manual focus with the Voigtlander Nokton 23mm f1.2 lens. This fully manual lens has the connectors on it to give the camera EXIF data about each image taken which can help you learn what it is you're doing with manual focus. Coupled with the Fujifilm X-Pro3, this lens makes the act of photography even more enjoyable because I am learning how to hone my craft. If you're just starting out and need a little guidance and inspiration, this might be the video you're looking for. But hopefully there's some parts in here that will resonate with seasoned photographers who have already discovered the joys of manual focus mode. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:20 Why I picked this lens 01:04 Manual focus CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:20 Why I Chose This Lens 01:02 Manual Focus 02:39 Focus Peaking 03:05 Zone Focusing 04:15 My A-Ha Moment 05:42 The Lens Did What I Wanted 06:14 Astonishing Low Light Performance 07:09 Not Technical Enough to Know if it's Bad 08:09 I'm Still New to This 08:41 Thank you! 08:54 Sample Video from the Lens FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag
The 2023 Perseids Meteor Shower in the Colorado High Country
In the early morning hours of August 13th, 2023, I drove into the mountains to practice astrophotography and get a glimpse of the Perseid Meteor Shower that was supposed to reach its peak in those hours between 2am and 4am. I took my Fujifilm X-H2, Fujifilm X-Pro3, and a couple of tripods and hit the road. But even though I had done my homework, nothing could teach me like actually doing it. I didn’t get the time lapse photography I was after, but I did learn some things and got some great images regardless. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:14 Where I went to capture the meteor shower 00:45 What I brought 01:28 Where I failed 02:26 Nailed focus with X-Pro3 and a manual lens 02:56 Optical Viewfinder (OVF) to the rescue! 03:30 Trying new settings 04:07 It's the act itself 04:40 What changed my photography 04:59 My best photo from the Perseid Meteor Shower 2023
Hike with the Insta360 Flow
Hiking in Owl’s Perch Trail near Denver, Colorado with the Insta360 Flow. Review coming soon!
Oh Deer!
Went to Mount Falcon Park outside of Denver this morning to test my new Viltrox 75mm f1.2 lens on my Fujifilm X-H2 and got a special moment with some deer.
Morning Walk with the X-Pro3
I went out with my Fujifilm X-Pro3, the Insta360 Flow, and a DJI Mic to start learning how to do more short form content. Still probably overdone.
Fujifilm X-Pro3: I love this camera!
When I sold my Fujifilm X100V and X-T4 in January of 2023, the plan was always to replace both cameras but I couldn’t do it right away so I bought the X-T5 thinking I could pick up the X-Pro3 shortly after that. How wrong I was! Because of the rush to buy all things Fujifilm, I could not find this camera for a reasonable price for months. But I’m glad I stuck to it because I absolutely love this camera. Also, this is the first video I have ever edited using Davinci Resolve. It was a big lift coming from LumaFusion and I found a lot of it to be overwhelming. But there's no denying that the color correction available in Resolve is a giant leap forward. Exciting! Chapters: 00:00 Finding the X-Pro3 in 2023 01:44 The X-Pro3 as my X100V Replacement 02:37 Positive 1: The Hidden Screen 03:21 Positive 2: Lenses! The 35mm 1.4 03:39 Positive 3: The Design 05:28 Negative 1: The OVF 08:12 Negative 2: The Hidden Screen 09:00 Negative 3: The ISO Dial 10:00 Fujifilm Gripe About the &$#% Exposure Dial 10:59 The Conclusion 11:43 Like & Subscribe 12:03 One More Positive... FOLLOW ME! Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Mastodon: https://photog.social/@freitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@chrisfreitag
Photography Tip: Make Your Photo Instead of Take It
There’s a moment where you realize that you’re no longer taking photos, you’re making photos. And when you feel the difference, photography opens up to you. But can we take a moment to acknowledge that it's difficult to say the words "make a photo."? It's just hard to do and say. We use the terms "take a photo" or "take a shot" so easily that it's hard to not say it. But what I'm talking about here is understanding when you go from point-and-shoot, allowing the camera to make decisions for you, to setting the settings you want because you see the scene a certain way and you want your photo to reflect what you see. In this video, I take my Fujifilm X-T5 and XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR lens to a familiar spot for travel where I discover a photo opportunity in the sunrise that makes me see the photo prior to ever pressing the shutter on my camera. -- Chapters -- 00:00 Intro 00:31 I've been here before 00:55 Walking in the sand 01:17 Framing the sunrise 02:24 Later that morning 03:00 Editing the Austin-Healey 03:24 Making two photos 04:04 What I used to think 04:25 Editing is not a bad word 04:39 Wrap up
My Channel Cratered on May 24th
I don’t know why or what happened but on May 24th, 2023, my YouTube channel completely cratered and has not recovered. It is an opportunity.
You Can Improve Your Photography with a Photo Project
It may seem like something you only need to do if you're a photography student but doing a photography project can help you grow your photography skills in a short amount of time. I take an idea from a fellow photographer from glass.photo who went on crusade to get the company to add "reflections" as a category and in doing so, went out and took daily photos of just reflections. What started as kind of a funny little social media thing turned into watching his photography get better. I was inspired to try something similar so I set out to take a photo every day in the month of May. Glass Photo is an excellent community! https://glass.photo/ See Phil Jahner on Glass: https://glass.photo/philjahner CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:34 The Inspiration 01:41 Every Day in May 02:08 What I Learned 02:54 It's Worth Your Time 03:26 Have You Done a Project?
Packing a Bag for Street Photography
I wasn't planning on making an 8 minute video about a photo walk but the video started to take its own shape and I went with it. I share with you the bag I'm using, what's inside, and the style I'm after in this walk around River North and Union Station in Denver, CO on May 28, 2023. Kodachrome 25 Film Recipe from @FujiXWeekly Note: The X-Trans IV recipe wasn't a 1-to-1 on the X-Pro 3 and I modified Highlights and Shadows. https://fujixweekly.com/2021/11/30/fujifilm-x-e4-film-simulation-recipe-kodachrome-25/ 00:00 - Intro 00:17 - Kodachrome 25 Film Recipe 00:47 - The gear 01:14 - The bag 02:02 - The location & start the photo walk 02:48 - Switching to a manual focus lens 03:04 - Photo walk continues 04:22 - Back in the studio 05:36 - Vlogging isn't for me 06:07 - Manual focusing troubles 06:37 - My final thoughts on wasting time 07:45 - I appreciate you!
XF18mmF1.4 R LM WR: Early Impressions
The Fujifilm XF18mmF1.4 R LM WR is the sharpest lens I've ever used. I'm not always after the sharpest image, I like lenses that have some flaws that can give images character but having a sharp lens that can give you the most from your sensor is a great tool to have.
My first 6 Months on YouTube: What I've Learned
I started my YouTube channel in October of 2022 and I have some thoughts on what I’ve learned in my first 6 months. I don’t have a large channel but it’s growing. And there’s so much more to learn. Hopefully this is just the beginning of my journey. 00:09 - False Start 00:47 - Real Start 01:10 - What it means to me 02:00 - You have to learn and grow 02:35 - You don't need much 03:19 - Don't buy gear you don't need 03:44 - Even a bad video can be good 04:22 - The mics I use 04:57 - Start small, you won't get it right 05:32 - Don't make excuses 06:08 - Thank you 06:44 - Postscript about the phone
A Journey Through the Olympic Peninsula with my Fujifilm XT5
Took my Fujifilm X-T5 to Washington state in early April 2023. I used the 16-55 2.8 lens for *most* of the images in this video, only a couple were taken with my new lens, which I'll talk about in a future video. Vlogging bit was with the iPhone and, shockingly, the Sennheiser MKE-200 without the windscreen on (and it was insanely windy) 00:00 - Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge 01:23 - Port Angeles, Snug Harbor, and Lake Crescent 01:59 - Marymere Falls 02:28 - Ruby Beach and a bridge on Hwy 101 02:56 - Vlogging on the Dungeness Spit 03:56 - Coming attractions
XF16-55mmf2.8: The Best Lens for Travel Photography
I continue to grow and learn. Not only about how wrong I was about the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR but also about using the Fuji CamRemote app on my phone to use as an external monitor. Turns out that records video in 1080p, even though I had my video settings on 4K. That app is just the worst. Nowhere in the UI was I told that I was shooting video in 1080p. Oh well, it's the message that counts. My previous video about the XF16-55mmF2.8 https://youtu.be/S9e1EXpT80I Hi-Res versions of the photos so you can see them better: B&W mountains: https://glass.photo/freitag/5Tz8LCfX19OfYV0tbIhXOD Eagle: https://glass.photo/freitag/7Y8LCQhR8aPE9HvBi1r4Ty Tall Tree: https://glass.photo/freitag/5H7tdLhmaMq8VF49eWkjyc Moss-Covered Tree: https://glass.photo/freitag/1edlTaMCRKPsVvr87Qafhm Dark Path: https://glass.photo/freitag/57h3FNo8SObvjistY1zJ35 Bridge: https://glass.photo/freitag/4EHU7aEeyTk12Ox6EY7Nmm Dock: https://glass.photo/freitag/8AtTt60Ie23vsSxeyNtJ1 B&W Ocean: https://glass.photo/freitag/3Jc2tCjkN9khbOAsqVt9ek Blue House: https://glass.photo/freitag/4O9LDfB3E28D8N4aBpfbrC
Thoughts on the Fuji XF16-55mmF2.8 Lens
My thoughts on the XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR lens by Fujifilm after the first 2 months. UPDATE: Back from my trip and im singing a different tune: https://youtu.be/TWlCsoLKYx4 00:19 Welcome 00:38 I'll start with the bad 02:06 Now on to the good 02:40 First weekend with the lens samples 03:15 Street photography samples 03:49 Testing the waters, pushing the lens samples 04:15 Using it for travel 05:43 Wrap up 06:17 Like 👍 and subscribe!
How To Find Your Photographic Style As A Beginner.
I’m on a discovery to find my photographic style. This was going to be about cinematic photography but it the video took me in another direction. Please remember to 👍 and subscribe! All images were shot on Fujifilm X100V, X-T4, or X-T5 using the Kodak Ultramax 400 recipe (as a starting place) from @FujiXWeekly which you can find here: https://fujixweekly.com/2020/08/09/fujifilm-x100v-film-simulation-recipe-kodak-ultramax-400/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:41 What You Want to Say 01:19 Cinematic Look 02:07 My Favorite Film Recipe 02:56 Shoot in JPG+RAW 03:51 How To Define a Style 05:39 Style is a Journey 06:32 Thank You
XF27mmF2.8 R WR - Perfect Pancake
The Fujinon XF27mmF2.8 R WR is a pancake lens that's perfect for travel and blending in for street photography. Not exactly the right lens for a company event but it was all I had. The intro video and all stills were taken on the Fujfilm X-T5 with the XF27mmF2.8 lens. 00:00 Intro 00:24 Why I wanted this lens 01:17 Used the lens for travel 01:53 Sample images 1 02:30 Favorite shot from Santa Barbara 03:00 Sample images 2 03:45 An unexpected event 04:57 Sample images 3 05:10 Fujifilm still struggles with autofocus 05:28 Last thoughts 05:50 Future video teaser 06:14 Like & Subscribe
Fujifilm X-T5 - Why I Chose To Upgrade
Why I upgraded. Or why I chose to upgrade. Or why I could justify this big expense to myself. Or why I told myself whatever lies I needed to so I could just go trade in my X-T4 and get my hands on this thing. 00:35 The iPhone 14 Pro Max problem 01:52 The Fujifilm upgrade cycle 02:17 The flip up instead of flip out screen 03:12 The tightening up of the hardware dials 03:51 Video samples from the X-T5 04:22 The 40MP sensor and the digital teleconverter 05:09 Where this gets interesting is the next X100 05:38 Photo samples of the X-T5 and wrap up 06:25 Like 👍 and subscribe!
The Importance of the Fujifilm X100 Cameras
Whether you're getting the new Fujifilm X100VI or have the Fujifilm X100V or any X100 model, the thing that makes this line of cameras special and unique is not any specific version or model, it’s the way it simplifies the act of photography. Once I had something that made sense to me and I wanted to use, it completely changed how I approach the craft. “Why a cool camera will make you a better photographer” @GxAce video: https://youtu.be/Pb1ABLu8w3A Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:39 Started with a Nikon 01:38 Experimenting with a fixed lens camera 02:39 Back to interchangeable lenses 03:16 The problem with PSAM when learning 04:16 Going all-in with the X100V 05:24 A camera you want to use 05:57 The plan to practice 06:19 How the dials on the body help 07:22 Moving forward with better understanding 07:44 The X100V changed how I view photography 08:20 The X100V has taught me so much 09:29 My excitement for photography has grown 10:30 I want to do this for the rest of my life FOLLOW ME! All of my social networks https://www.chrisfreitag.com/connect
Best of 2022 (In 100 Seconds)
My favorite photos of 2022 in 100 seconds. Cameras: Fujifilm X100V Fujifilm X-T4 iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max I used a lot of film recipes from @FujiXWeekly but my favorites for 2022 were Kodak Ultramax 400 and Agfa APX 400 which had a spot on both my X100V and X-T4. I travel a lot to Santa Barbara, CA for work but otherwise most of this was taken in Colorado. Enjoy!
The X100V Showed Me The Power of ND Filters
Traveled to Santa Barbara, CA with my Fujifilm X-T4 plus Viltrox AF 13/1.4 XF with an ND Filter and took a photo that is instantly one of my top 5 photographs. I owe it to the X100V and the YouTube photography community for finally unlocking what this little filter could do. (Chapters listed below) 0:00 - Changed my mind for this video 0:35 - Misconception of ND filters 1:02 - Photos on the X100V with ND filter ON 1:30 - The "a-ha" moment with the X-T4 2:19 - Tests with X100V ND filter ON and OFF 2:51 - Putting it together in Santa Barbara 3:21 - Photos leading up to [ =- THE SHOT -= ] 4:13 - Conclusion and thanks
The XF35mmF1.4 R: First Impressions
A quick look at the XF35mmF1.4 R lens for Fuji X-Mount cameras. This is not a full review and I won't know how well it holds up until I've used it longer. This is how I feel about it after 2 days and I can confidently say that this 10-year-old lens lives up to the hype. I also wrote a companion piece: https://chrisfreitag.com/post/701993321301721088/about-the-35mm-14
Viltrox 13mm Ultra Wide Angle for Fuji X Mount
A quick look at the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 for the Fuji X-mount and my Fuji X-T4. A more thorough review of the Viltrox 13mm from @pal2tech https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnkQLWRwKzs Equipment and Software: Main Camera: Fujifilm X-T4 (https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/cameras/x-t4/) Lens 1: Viltrox AF 13/1.4 XF (https://viltroxstore.com/collections/camera-lens/products/viltrox-13mmf14-series-fuji-x-nikon-z-sony-e-mount-lens) Lens 2: Fujinon XF16-80mmF4 R OIS WR (https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/lenses/xf16-80mmf4-r-ois-wr/) 2nd Camera: Fujifilm X100V (https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/products/cameras/x100v/) Video Editor: LumaFusion (https://luma-touch.com/lumafusion-for-ios-2/) Image Editor 1: Adobe Lightroom (https://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop-lightroom.html) Image Editor 2: Affinity Photo (https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/photo/) Vector Editor: Affinity Designer (https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/designer/) Music: GarageBand (https://www.apple.com/ios/garageband/)
Fujifilm X-T4: Out of My Comfort Zone
This was supposed to be about the SmallRig camera cage and accessories for the Fujifilm X-T4. It was also supposed to be about learning to create a Time Lapse. Instead, this is a video about the frustrations of learning how to shoot video. You can't just jump into video because you understand photography settings, there are a lot more variables to consider. Still, I am enjoying doing this.
Discovering Fujifilm X-T4 and Video
My YouTube channel premier, I'm starting something new. Everything about this first video is about me learning how to use my camera for video, how to use my camera at all, and how to use editing software. It's rough but hopefully it gets better. What started as an attempt to create my first video of a photo shoot with the Fujifilm X-T4 turned into a cautionary tale of trying to run before you can walk. My comfort with the X100V made me think I could just pick up the X-T4 and go with it. It reminded me to slow down, remember that I'm beginning, and that's where this video goes. Follow me: Glass: https://glass.photo/freitag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreitag/
Fujifilm X-T4 Video Test
Quick test with the Fujifilm X-T4 and using Luma Fusion. Hopefully this is the beginning…
M1 Pro Rapid Open
Quick demo of just how fast applications open on the 14" MacBook Pro M1 Pro with the following: 10-Core CPU, 16-Core GPU, 16GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage