I struggled with “what’s the point?” when shooting digital for Instagram. I did it for 3 years posting almost every day, it was an empty experience, with everyone liking just to get you to like theirs. I got the same copy/pasted comments from the same people for years! Back to film last year, and I’m shooting to make books and zines. I don’t even care if anyone buys them. I love the whole experience.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Good for you Joel, just making content to stay on the bandwagon with everyone else is a very unrewarding exercise.

Not only are your images great, the production quality of your videos is top notch. I hope all your viewers appreciate how much work it is. Thank you for sharing!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

I was shooting with a 4x5 Intrepid down in Dungeness at the weekend and got chatting to an elderly couple who were intrigued by the archaic looking tech. The wife used to run a lab, the husband shot product photography. Listening to their story, as he held his huge DSLR and zoom lens, it was eye opening as to how many professional film photographers were forced into the digital age just to keep working - to the point of not being hired unless you could shoot digital. No wonder so many gave up their gear and moved on. I'm 40 and have only ever had film cameras, but I've never had to earn a living taking pictures. My hobby has enabled me to only pursue formats and aesthetics that interest me, whereas I might not have had the same luxury trying to earn a crust through the 90s and 00s.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’m in a similar position and lucky enough not to have to do photography for a living. It must have been devastating for many businesses when digital came along and suddenly everyone was a photographer. Keeping it as a pastime means making choices for personal reasons, not to earn a crust.

Steve O'Nions and Ben Horne are the two most interesting photographers on the internet. I watch everything that either of you make. I think that both of you are great teachers and perhaps you do not even realize how you are educating millions of people with your vlogs. You might think millions is superlative or somewhat an exaggeration. But teaching is like a bomb. You teach someone, they enjoy it, and they teach someone else. I have set up four people I know with camera equipment, and will set up two more in the near future (I gave them digital, sorry, but I also recommended your videos so maybe they will change their minds). For instance, consider how many digital photographers will slow down their process because of the things that Steve and Ben say about how to photograph. I don't always agree with either of you, but that is fine, else everyone would agree and all photographs would be the same. Sometimes I like something I see in the background video better than any photo I see processed, but even at that, I see clear genius in both of your efforts. Consider this, if you take a 50 megapixel digital camera and give it to some yahoo, and you take a shoebox with a pinhole at one end and a film sheet at the other and give it to Ansel Adams, who would come up with the best desert photo? So, I think, some is training, some is equipment, some is desire and effort, and some is simply god-given ability. But whatever the case, any of us can learn. And thank you in particular for being a very enjoyable teacher.

@waynesimon2963

3 жыл бұрын

Try and get a digital camera away from Ansel Adams...lol.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the kind words Dan and I’m glad you enjoy the videos. It was Ben who inspired me to start vlogging, along with Thomas Heston, they both have such enthusiasm for what they do. If people enjoy watching the videos I can’t ask for anything more so thanks again for your continued support.

@danncorbit3623

3 жыл бұрын

@@SteveONions Thanks for the tip on Thomas Heaton. He clearly has a fabulous eye and is a great teacher. I have watched several of his videos and will watch more of them. However, I rank him third, after both you and Ben Horne because of relatability. What I mean by that is strictly due to what I envision myself doing. He flies all over the world, to Nepal, to Antarctica, to Iceland, to the US, to the Mediteranean, etc. and I don’t see myself doing that (though on rare occasions I might go someplace more exotic). You and Ben tend to keep the trips within a couple thousand miles or less, which is a lot less expensive and often doable by car. Here in the Pacific Northwest, I have Mount Rainier, the Cascade mountains, Puget Sound, the Pacific ocean, evergreen forest, rain forest, desert and wind swept plains all within Washington state. And there is plenty to see within a 1000 mile circle. For that reason, I find the videos of Steve O’nions and Ben Horne more relatable. Of course, with Mr. Heaton, the teaching is just as good and I can appreciate the breathtaking scenery he does find. I will absorb value from all of your work, and thanks again.

The most inspirational photograph channel on YT. And I say that as a digital shooter myself.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

Steve, I’ve a foot in both digital and analogue camps. However being new to medium format, it’s the Blad that goes with me and the 5d4 stays home. It was your tube which clinched it for me, as I realised it wasn’t just me that enjoyed the pace, the feelings and the results. So thanks for enthusing a “lost sheep” and shepherding me safely back to film. Bill

@gui4j

3 жыл бұрын

since I bought I Blad, I now have 2 ... I have never been happier to pick up a camera , just looking at the bloody thing is a pleasure .. although having said that I did invest in a fuji g617 for panaromic images, and its interesting how much more pleasure I get from the Blad than the fuji . really cannot explain it ..

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Glad to see you back Bill and not surprised you find the Bald such a joy to shoot with.

My journey is very reminiscent of yours. I started taking pictures when I was 12 years old, which is now 50 years ago. I had my own darkroom and was very active. Then came the digital revolution and I invested in digital equipment that I used to photograph weddings etc. Now I am back in the analog world again and enjoy it very much :)

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

There’s a lot of us doing the same thing Gunnar so there’s clearly something about film (and the cameras) that we find irresistible.

I have to say Steve, that I have been watching utube videos on film and film camera's over the last eighteen months or so. YOUR blog's I have found the most entertaining and informative. You take us into the UK's landscape and show us your take on how you shoot this wonderful landscape that is the United Kingdom. I myself have followed a similar path to yours, having gotten into photography at an early age. I purchased a Nikon F3, and the MD4 when it was launched as a replacement of the F2 (I'm now a proud owner of a black Photomic F) and took it from there. I to sold ALL my Nikon cameras, (by then I had two F3's), a shed load of lenses, to go buy a digital camera. I stayed with digital for a number of years and like you, missed the solitude and magic of the dark room. So 18 months/two years ago I sold all my digital Nikon's, purchased a Rolleicord VA, a Wista SP and lenses and recently the Photomic F, and as I've mentioned to you before, I'm in the process of building my garage darkroom. My wife and I have just moved to North Devon, so I have a beautiful landscape on my doorstep, and will be out at every opportunity with the camera. So keep up the good work Steve, your vids are brilliant and above all they are Honest. Cheers mate. Kit.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kit and what a lovely part of the country you live in. The two outfits you have complement each other very well and no doubt you’ll soon be enlarging the negs in your new darkroom. It can be painful to think of all the equipment you’ve parted with but thankfully it can all be repurchased - I’ve done it quite a few times.

After rewatching this very intriguing video, I discovered a big difference between us; I'm constitutionally incapable of selling any of my gear. I've never sold a camera, still having the first one I ever used back in the 1950s. My wife once quipped that when I die there will be the funeral at noon, auction at 1 pm. I admire your sincerity and tenacity. You inspire me, that's why I watch your postings. Thanks again.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Wish I’d kept everything Michael.

I started in photography the same time as you during the 80's. I shot professionally during film days in the early 90's and got burned out. I had a darkroom and printed for clients also. I ended up changing professions because the economics of commercial photography was changing. I changed careers back in 1998 and started working in the world of web development for a university. I started photography again and got a digital camera, a Macintosh, Photoshop and a printer. I never felt the same satisfaction doing photography digitally as when I shot film and printed in the darkroom. I slowly returned to my film cameras sitting in my closet and went back into the darkroom. Luckily, I didn't sell any of my film or darkroom equipment. Going back to my film cameras is like catching with old friends. Printing in the darkroom was much more fun than printing digitally. All my computer gear I bought back in the 90's and 2000's are now electronic waste while my analog photographic gear is still brings me joy. I plan to retire in 18 months from my job at the university and plan to do more analog photography. Most of the digital photography I do is with my phone.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

You made the right decision not to sell all your film equipment Don, I wish I’d done the same. Hope your journey goes well into retirement - like you the majority of my digital images are now made on a mobile phone.

I started taking photos in the late 1970’s with a Praktica MTL3, upgraded over the years, set up a B&W darkroom, and then forgot all about it. In 2005 I purchased a digital SLR, and it rekindled the hobby, I now own a load of Canon Professional kit that spends most of its life gathering dust while I use a Sony A6000, more or less daily. Watching you videos made me think, so I had a rummage round and found my old battered Canon T70 35MM SLR, a few rolls of HP5 ordered and I am off the Scotland in June with it, thanks for the inspiration

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Nice one Gary, I’m jealous of your Scotland trip too, just make sure you have plenty of midge spray 😀

Thank you! Your story mirrors many of us. I never left film. I own 3 digital cameras all in 4 thirds format and carry them in the car to try shooting sites for size with the winners seeing me return with film. For pleasure I restore and modify old bellows cameras to shoot modern film sizes all in b&w. I'm 70 years old now and health matters limit my trips to day outings in easy territory. I do my best to never miss your videos and wish I could keep up with you! Bless you, keep teaching and incourageing others with your thoughts.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks David and long may you continue to breath life into old cameras!

LOL...It's a bloody roller coaster ride Steve. Love the video and chat. I'm in the purchase stage myself. Medium format, large format loving the feel of film cameras in a rebirth myself I suppose. I have discovered a love of reconditioning and rebuilding large format cameras from the 40's & 50's as much as actual photography. It's a great feeling to rebuild an old camera, repair a few broken limbs and send her out into the world with a new dress for another fifty years of use. Just finished rebuilding a 1939 Graflex Speed Graphic. I will be sending her off shortly. Thanks again for your time and the video. Similar memories made me laugh out loud a couple of times. Cheers from Nova Scotia, Canada.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Wayne and congratulations on refurbishing the large format cameras. This is how we will save the planet and allow others to enjoy quality equipment from the past.

Thanks for the backstory. I love hearing how people are coming back to film in this digital age. ❤️

@mikehalsall8026

3 жыл бұрын

Not just film my cars are from 1952 and 1978 and I am now rebuilding valve radios. I think I prefer an analogue world.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

It’s becoming very popular, how long before digital is considered ‘alternative’? 😀

@eddicroce3462

3 жыл бұрын

My other hobby of amateur (ham) radio has been infiltrated with digital communication modes galore !!! I make use of them when the circumstances are right. However, analog modes are still going strong and we refer to digital as just another mode.

@kowa1-everellphotographic306

3 жыл бұрын

@@SteveONions in my other hobby synths - analogue have now become so expencive only the collector or rich can afford them and early digital 80s 90s synths are picking up in price, but there are also software versions its a mine field of endless pc upgrading and lossing out as some software wont work with newer operating systems so you loose out, ive choosen to go hardware only now

Started at the dawn of digital. Won several awards for a small local weekly newspaper shooting sports. Got into weddings which killed any joy after a few years. Did not pick up camera for years. Every time I have thought of making money at this hobby it just quickly bogs me down. Always been a fan of Kenna. If I had just kept with one of any of the cool systems I have owned and spent the money traveling, it would have been a joyous journey. I do enjoy the darkroom as well but no place to build one for myself. Thanks to your channel you have helped give me inspiration and direction.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you like the videos Rob 🙂

Learned on digital, about 10 years ago. I then started shooting film about 1 1/2 years ago. Fun process, (I don’t develop Or print my film yet) but I do love the slowing down process that film forces you to take.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

May the fun continue Jonathan!

"Sell everything - then buy it back" seems to be a common phenomenon. I'm guilty of it myself :D

@joeltunnah

3 жыл бұрын

Assuming you’re not a professional, when it would be bad business to do that, I look at buying and selling as just part of the hobby. People in most other hobbies buy sell and trade all the time, photographers get so neurotic about it! 😂

@cdl0

3 жыл бұрын

I have another method, which is called "put it in the loft". :-) It is a sort of lazy version of the "Sell everything - then buy it back" because it saves all the effort of selling and buying, but the result is about the same.

@cioccbike

3 жыл бұрын

@@cdl0 lol! Spot on. Myself, it goes into the storage unit.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’m with you on this one 👍

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’ve told myself to put unused gear into a box in the cupboard so I can rediscover it in a few years time.

Appreciate all you do for the photography community, and always look forward to watching your videos. Cheers 🍻

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

While I've never been much of a darkroom printer (and never got rid of my small setup), I've followed a similar journey. I started dabbling in digital in 2005 or so and shot it alongside my film gear, but never really got serious about digital. Around 2012 I sold off all my film gear to concentrate on digital and subsequently found my shooting dropped off a cliff. I eventually found my voice in digital in mid-2019, shooting colour landscape, a genre I'd never done seriously before then. But with the lockdowns I struggled to be able to get out into the landscapes I love (which are a minimum of a 3-4 hour drive away in the excessively large Province of Ontario). Last fall I picked up my last remaining 35mm camera, an heirloom that I'd held onto just because it was a gift, and started dabbling again. 6 months later I've realized that I greatly prefer B&W film for shooting in the city to digital and have replaced a bunch of my sold off kit, although I'm still trying to figure out what MF setup I'll get to replace my foolishly sold Mamiya 645 Super.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That sounds like a good balance of equipment with each having it own niche. I also regret selling my last Mamiya 645 outfit some years ago, two bodies and a stack of accessories for under £600.

I started in film, but loved the creativity and freedom digital gave me as a pro, but my favourite images were always those shot on film. I shoot both happily. I love colour film and B&W. Above all I love the grain film gives me and the mechanical nature of film cameras. I love that an archival negative is made at the time of exposure so no saving my images to the cloud. I upgrade my digital bodies, but I will never and have never sold any of my film cameras since 1992 when I went autofocus. There is just something magical about a B&W print from film. It’s why so many young photographers are now experiencing the joys of film photography. We become better photographers when we shoot film. That I have no doubt. Keep going Steve, your my favourite KZreadr, by far.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Simon and I’m glad toy never sold any of your film cameras, wish I’d done the same. I also love the texture of grain although it’s not really there in large format it is made up for with the terrific tonality. Thanks for your continued support 👍

Hi Steve, from Spain. I follow you for 1 year and a half, i discovered your channel and today this is one of my favorite. I buyed my Bronica SQ-A for you and i'm happy with she. This is the first time i whrite here, i liked a lot kwoning your process in photography.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting Raúl and I hope you are enjoying the Bronica. All the best. Steve.

I was on the same full circle, too. Started with film cameras in the late 70s, had some hiatus, restarted film in the 90s, had some hiatus and then restarted digital. With going digital, I have discoverd that KZread had so much to offer concerning photography in any aspect. Some coincidence made me find some videos about shooting film. This planted the seed to go back to film again. Ebay offered that all the beauties of the past are now available for a reasonable amount of money. To make a long story short, I am back to medium format and even started to go large format with 4x5 now. Sadly I am not able to install a dark room. But I am able to develop my films in b&w and C-41. So the only compromise to the digital world is, that I am using a scanner instead of my dark room. I want to thank you for your passioon and effort you are putting into your videos. And thanks for sharing your great pictures, your knowledge and even your thoughts about photography. Your chanel is the most inspiring one.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the kind comments and I’m glad to see you shooting film once more. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a hybrid workflow and I use my scanner a lot (most of the vlog images are made this way). I reserve darkroom printing for those negatives that I know will work well and leave the others for Lightroom 😊

The question of "why am I taking pictures" is always tricky. I have gone the digital printing route and bind pictures into books for my own amusement, but I have considered going out without a film in the camera because the process of framing an image, looking for the light, is often the most rewarding part

@joeltunnah

3 жыл бұрын

Making books is fun in and of itself, for me.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s an interesting point Mark, never considered that myself but an empty camera would be a challenge.

I just would like to say how much I appreciate your videos and the effort to make them. As I have commented before, they are very inspiring, informative, calm and helpful as I try to improve my film photography . It's very interesting to hear your journey. I got my first rangefinder in 1984 and I bought my Pentax spotmatic II two years later and some lenses when I was 16. Fast forward to around 2006, my collection of Pentax's got put in the closet for the convenience of digital (so glad I did not sell them). However, I naturally do not get along with computers and with too many digital things obsolete or broken and not willing to buy more, I found myself looking at my Spotmatic two years ago and deciding I would go back to film. So 38 years later here I was out this morning with my Spotmatic and listening and learning from your videos this evening. Stunning images and video's! Its lovely to see the scenery. I spent my life in the mountains of the west coast of Canada where around every bend is another jaw dropping scene but now live in Southern Sweden where I need to work harder for the shots. Your woodland video's are a great help in composition. All the best, Kaj

@SteveONions

4 ай бұрын

Thanks Kaj and I’m glad you’ve managed pick up where you left off all those years ago. I’ve only been to the west coast of Canada once but it’s spectacular and I was struggling to know where to point the camera.

I've found myself doing the same thing. When digital started I jumped on board. It was easy, I didn't have to take as much time to plan my shots, and it seemed great. But.. not so much. I realized later that the best part of the experience was trial and error, not knowing what I got until the film was processed, having a limited number of frames to shoot, and taking the time to enjoy the experience. Digital became boring. Now I'm back to film (black and white is my preference) and loving it. Thanks for sharing your photography and great videos.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

We have very similar experiences, part of what draws me to film is the excitement and anticipation of seeing the results days or weeks later. It stops me fretting whilst out shooting and let’s me concentrate on getting the image.

I started with film in 1974, eventually worked as a pro but then gave it up. Digital got me back into photography in the early 2000's, but then went back to film. I then thought digital was finally the way to go so invested heavily but gradually film has again taken over again. And you wouldn't believe my digital gear sitting idle but I prefer working with an Olympus RC35 to my Leica M10.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

It’s a common theme Steve and obviously many of us are finding film cameras just more fun than digital. I don’t look forward to a digital outing and find taking images that way a very hollow experience.

Thank you for your journey, Steve, which fairly well tracks my own journey of 60 years in photography (except that I never sold off my film cameras in order to keep shooting "personal" and "real" images). Fortunately, I left commercial and advertising photography just before digital became de rigeur in commercial work, and went into university teaching, where I continued to introduce the magic inside a wet darkroom to young students. At first, I was afraid these students would become bored without the instant gratification of digital. I was pleasantly surprised when they loved it! Each semester, at least one of these students would set up their own darkroom at home. Very rewarding to know that I could pass on my own love of film photography to another generation. Of course, you are doing a similar thing on a much wider worldwide scale now with your KZread channel. So thank you for your insights and encouragement to all of us who love photography.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you John and congratulations on keeping the skills alive with a younger audience. I think you were fortunate to get out before digital became the norm and changed the playing field for good. I’m also surprised at just how interested younger people are with film photography. It certainly has a more magical element to it for a generation raised on interactions with screen alone. Thanks for commenting. Steve.

Hi Steve I believe there is a countermovement going on from the high speed instant gratification that social media and digital technology offers. I got inspired by people like you and Ben Horne to the mindful slow proces of analog photography which forces me to slow down from my daily hectic life which is mostly driven by mental challenges than using my creativity. I started film with my fathers old Voigtländer Vitoret back in the 80's, discovered digital from 2000 and got more serious in digital photography in general from 2015 and since 2020 in the pandemic bought myself the Nikon F3 that I could not afford myself in the 80's. I found a balance between my digital and analog work by making the choice to shoot my landscapes predominately digital in color and street, architecture in black and white film. Spending the past year with film I feel also improved my digital photography because it sharpened my eye for contrast, luminosity and composition so it is a digital and analog win-win for me. Next step could be self developing but this needs time and space. Thanks Steve for sharing your time and knowledge on this platform it is highly appreciated!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s a good idea to split your work between the two mediums Aad as you can exploit the virtues of each system with having to decide which to use and when. By using both you improve your overall standard, digital has helped me immeasurably and I often use my iPhone to assess compositions and save film. I hope your journey continues to be productive and more importantly an enjoyable one.

Welcome to the B+W film community. I have followed a similar journey but probably the biggest mindset difference with film was back in the 70's grain was avoided and now it is embraced. Also the over saturation of digital colour is all too much. I only use Instagram as an outlet and have had many nice comments and encounters with people which I have found does encourage me to get out there. Cheers!

Dear Steve, thank you for the very personal view we get on your photographic approach and activities. It is moving to hear your story cycling between film and digital to get the best photographic experience (I guess). I shot digital for years but came back to my grandmothers old Agfa Silette from the 50s and then film photography had me, with other cameras, other lenses. I still have to learn a lot about film but to watch your videos with your not agitated and precise way to take great shots benefits my photography a lot. Thank you. greetings from Germany Paul

Late again, Steve. I’ve been down that path as well. Been shooting exclusively B&W film until digital came along. Reluctantly, I migrated to digital but I’ve kept almost all of my film gear intact (35mm and medium format). You just never know. Still doing digital now, but cost of film and processing etc is quite prohibitive. So I’ve put off my return to film, for the meantime. Last I heard, Fujifilm is also raising their prices. But I do have to say, your B&W/Monochrome work is absolutely amazing and are a few notches higher than what I have in others ie. your attention to metering and composition. Your talent for seeing and the discipline in selecting the scene is something which the majority of us sorely lack. I need to improve upon that. Thus, besides sharing with us your wonderful soulful and moody images, you’ve taught us how to move on our journey towards making better images of our own. That is simple yet invaluable. Grateful for that. Cheers and take care

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Good move on keeping all your film equipment, I wish I’d done the same. B&W is still extremely affordable unlike colour which for most uses is best done with digital.

Followed a similar arc and now shoot B&W on film and use a DSLR for colour. Have recently moved to 6x9 with a Fujica GL690 and use Tri-X and love the combination and also started to use Palladium Printing (so avoid the darkroom). On the subject of B&W Martin Kenna, in a recent interview in Analogue Forever magazine said: "We see in colour all the time. Everything around us is in colour. Black and white is therefore immediately an interpretation of the world, rather than a copy. I think black and white photographs are quieter and more mysterious than those made in colour. For me, the subtlety of black and white inspires the imagination of the individual viewer to complete the picture in the mind's eye. It doesn't attempt to compete with the outside world. I believe it is calmer and gentler than colour, and persists longer in our visual memory."

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Black and white definitely removes a lot of distraction, our eyes are not told to follow the signals that certain colours send out, compositions become simpler yet at the same time harder to make effective. Your 6x9 must produce excellent negatives, the tonality of larger film sizes is what I like about them. All the best, Steve.

I think we all eventually find that leveling balance between the analog and digital world that works for us. I use an iPhone app to view my composition in B&W much like Ansel did with his Polaroid. I scan and print my negatives on an inkjet and then try to perfect them in the darkroom. I set out for a six hour hike into the Texas hill country and take one roll of 120 Pan F Plus for the day. On the other hand I contribute event pictures for a sports car club and I use digital. At the end of the day I hand over the SD card to the fellow who produces the digital newsletter and Robert is your mother’s brother. It’s all good.

@SteveONions

Жыл бұрын

Whatever works, it’s the enjoyment and end result that matters 👍

It’s amazing how similar our photography lives are. I did everything you did and had everything you did (including JOBO processors) and I shake my head at what I got rid of in 2012. I came back to film because I wasn’t having fun with digital. I agree film is more expensive, time consuming and difficult. But it’s fun and that’s why I’m doing it. Now I’ve got a 8x10, 8x20 and 14x17. I will spend the rest of my life doing this. Thanks for sharing

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I feel the same about digital Michael although it doesn’t make sense when I think about it. The ability to shoot as many images for free, instant results, easy processing via miracle software. But somehow that just doesn’t make it enjoyable, it would be the same if you drove to the top of a mountain compared to hiking up there - a hollow experience. Good luck with the ULF photography too, they must be amazing cameras to work with (and the image quality!).

The parallels are unbelievable, my story is the same, even down to going self employed, although this was the same time for me as digital started, so returned to photography as my place of sanity where I could just switch off, then film crept back in, and has more of less taken over, all of my b&w is now film, only the colour is digital. I enjoy the processing and the printing, both wet and dry. But it’s still my place of sanity from everything else. I just need to start selling a few now 🤣 Keep up the great work, and the inspiration for the rest of us.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Matt, there’s a surprising number of us following the same path so hopefully we’re doing something right 🙂

Thanks, Steve. many of us have gone through the same experience as you have. I've also had to "buy back" all my film gear and rebuild my darkroom. I shoot with and rejoined a group of guys who also shoot black and white film with different projects in mind, and we submit as a group to galleries. Luckily there are still galleries who are in business, and willing to look at our work. There is great satisfaction in making a fine art print in the darkroom for people to see in a public setting.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s great to see people collaborating and submitting work to serious outlets, progress indeed. I think that in the last 20 years more darkrooms will have been destroyed and rebuilt than in the preceding century!

I agree with you that there is a look and feeling with B&W film that you can't get with digital. My first good camera was a Nikon FTN I bought in 1971. I've never been able to capture the quality of the B&W photos I took with that camera. They aren't pin sharp or with the micro-granular detail everyone strives for with digital, but they are warm and convey a sense of calm I can't get with digital prints. Keep up the good work.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

There’s something about certain camera/lens/film combinations that’s hard to pinpoint and I’ve seen it many times myself. A lot of film images just seem more real.

i started film photography about a year ago, only black and white, after 2 years of digital under pressure of my dad who tolds me it was "real photography" and he would pay for the chemicals. allright. so i started with a fujica stx-2, had a bit of fun, made a great deal on 6x6 elarger. and now i'm shooting only b&w, i think it's more fun and more engaging. probably also made me a better photographer because my thinking process has improved

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Glad to hear it, B&W is so much fun in the darkroom and every print is personal.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Or the pendulum swinging. The bottom line is being happy with whatever you are doing. I started with a Minolta SRT 101 in 1971 and phased into digital in the early 2000's. But I never got rid of my Canon Rebels. A few years back I decided to go into medium format film photography for black and white since the prices were so low. Ended up with 4 of them, all different. Also got color film, so I was doing it all with equipment I had wanted but could not afford way back when. Eventually got an Intrepid (yet to take out and use) and even got a Canon EOS 3 that I had also wanted back when it was new. Oh yeah, and I got an Olympus OM-D E-M5 II since I saw a few good presentations about M43 on reputable channels. I had done some darkroom work back in high school in the camera club but never set up my own. I agree, that is a lot of work. Most of what I shot way back was Kodachrome and then Fujichrome and a little Ektachrome. Later I did much more color print with the occasional B&W. When I get out now (which hasn't been very often lately) I might take any of the camera systems I have. I like landscapes, cityscapes and architecture, museums and gardens, car shows, cars, planes, and motorcycles. Even a macro now and again. I like both film and digital. I'm too easy, I like it all one way or the other. (Let's not get into primes and zooms!) Steve, that was a nice video about your winding path over the years. I like where you have ended up, with this channel. You do great stills work and lovely videos. I am glad you put your work out for public consumption and I am glad I found it. I always enjoy hearing your experiences and perspectives as well. Keep up the great work!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your support Mike, so glad you enjoy the content too. Toy did well picking up those camera systems when they were so cheap and I wish I’d held into all the ones I used to own. I like shooting similar material to yourself and having so many options with camera and film (and zooms v primes!) does keep it interesting. Digital is a fantastic medium but it has never grabbed me the same way as film, just something in the whole process of capture and delivery that leaves me cold. All the best for the future. Steve.

I have also gone from film to digital and now, back to film. And B&W as well. My audience (read, family) wonder why. I have come to terms with the reality that people aren't all that interested in my pictures. They're polite, but I spare them extended exposures (pun intended). But I love the process and the surprises. Nothing comes out the way I had intended. I am waiting for some film to dry at the moment -- that's why I watched your video. I am excited -- they look intersting. Thank you, Steve. Really.

@SteveONions

Жыл бұрын

Glad you are enjoying your photography Jeffery, all that matters is that you get satisfaction from the equipment and techniques you use.

276 comments in one day should tell you that you do have a home here on KZread. Fascinating to hear you tell us your journey. I get frustrated with software in general and post processing in particular. I thought film would be liberating but have not been adventurous enough to set up a darkroom. The middle ground of shooting film and scanning negatives turns into even more post processing and a major learning curve on how to get high quality scans. So this video lays out the alternative of printing in the darkroom. Definitely something to think about. Thanks!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kevin, I’m just catching up on all those comments! I like having the option to scan or darkroom print, both have a place for me and some images just work better in one medium than the other.

I like that photo of you with the Yashica TLR. The Yashica Matt 124 was my first serious camera which my dad bought for me in 1971.

I started out over four decades ago with 135 & MF (F2A & 500 C/M) and had my darkroom to print B&W and Color. That went on until 2000 before I picked up my first DSLR, the Canon D30 and never look back. Personally, I considered the time spent in the darkroom satisfied my creativity, curiosity and hungry for new knowledge. But it was still time wasted, instead of painting the town red, investing, etc. Being in IT for as long as in photography, digital was easy for me and still enabled me to take photos, print and learn new things. Also, it was a once in a lifetime experience to journey from the beginning that went through many hurdles, faced by both the industry and photographers. The only thing that was comparable with film was home color printing, back then. If I'm starting over again, that is as a young photographer, then I will NOT take up film. Instead of walking through a well travelled path with a modern twist (of course, missing out buying abandoned Leica & Hasselblad for a song), I rather follow what many Masters had done in the past, creating a new vision or process with what is on hand. Similar to Ansel Adams's Group f/64 and zone system and others use of colors in its early days. But as an old timer when time is no longer abundant, I refuse to waste more to repeat the past. I want to code/see AI to replace the time consuming portion of photography and anything else that we never dream of is possible. In other words, I rather be an agent of change instead of talking about the good old days.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

All good points well made. We chose a path for many reasons and having spent 4 decades in IT I sometimes slender why I enjoy film photography. Ultimately though I pursue it because I enjoy it, there is no requirement for me to make a living or produce anything I don’t want to. I have the luxury of pursuing it as an interest which is why I’d never make it into a living. Thanks for commenting

@bfs5113

3 жыл бұрын

@@SteveONions Yeah, photography is an emotional relief outlet for us, as IT was about logic, out of the box thinking, strategy and plenty of junk food without much sleep. Same for me playing with Broadcast TV as well back then. As an enthusiast liked many million of others, we all had our fair share of stories, fun and choices. 🙂

Sure, I'll take the time, I usually try to not come on too strong as I have opinions on everything. Your videos are a weekly highpoint (you and Charles Dowding the no-dig gardener). They are excellently made and I cannot fathom how you do it, the amount of data, editing and tongue in cheekousness required. I took a photo class in highschool back in '98 with an Olympus OM-1. All the other kids grabbed the Canon AEs as they were black. Then I bought a Canon EOS 350D that I was never really pleased with. In 2015 I dug my grandpa's Nikon F out of a drawer, along with a Gevabox 6x9. Then I bought an OM-1 in 2019, but the quest for a functioning lightmeter has now made me buy three more OM-1s, four OM-2s, three OM-10s, a Praktica B100 with massive mirror slap and then a Nikon f301 which just went "blaergh" and died before finally being satisfied with an OM-4. I cannot bring myself to sell them if they're not perfect, unlike the quacks that sold them to me. Then I have a Pentacon Six which slows down in cold weather. Then a Zeiss Ikon 6x9, and a Bronica S2A, both of which I am happy with along with a sekonic lightmeter. And a Toyo 45c. Also happy. Lesson learned, buy good stuff to begin with. Ironically the Nikon F I started with might take the best pictures in 35mm. I now have power to the photomic viewfinder as well. But yes, I miss an outlet. Instagram is ok. On Flickr noone cares about anyone else's work.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’m the same Steffen and can’t bring myself to sell anything that isn’t working perfectly, it’s not fair to dump the problem on someone else. I like your Olympus lineup and glad you’ve got a fully sorted Nikon F too, a camera for life.

Doesn't really matter what the tool is, as long as it makes you happy. Digital makes me happy, b&w film makes you happy. IT's great that we al have the choice. Thanks for sharing your story (and the photo of your younger self!)

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Well said Julian, everyone is a winner providing you’re happy with the results 👍

I'm back to film now, started my journey in the 1960's with an Exacta Varex iib, loaded my own film using a bulk loader! Like you, when I went digital I ended up with different formats, full frame (35mm), APS-C, Micro 4/3rds etc Gone back to using my old 35mm film cameras and developing at home. Trying to get proficient in scanning and I've just bought a Plustek 7600i SE which I got mint on ebay for £137, looking good so far. Enjoy your videos immensely Steve, thanks a lot.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Chris and good luck with the scanning. It can produce excellent results and I much prefer a digital hybrid B&W print to a pure digital one.

I had a second hand OM10 from my dad as a kid and into my teens. And learnt from him to develop and print at home. My interest wayned through my 20s then I got from my dad again, an Olympus EM510. I was never truly happy with digital and after acquiring more Olymus OM gear I rationalized on an OM4ti with a range of lenses and accessories. Getting back to using film I picked up a Bronica ETRsi with lenses dirt cheap fromna charity shop which pushed me into developing at home. Then came an Ensign Selfix folding camera to test my skills 100% manual. Finally at the start of this year I added a Canon 200d with a selection of lenses. Any trip out is now usually the canon with 200mm lens and either the ensign or Bronica. I only ever shoot B&W film. 35 years of cameras and I still never know which I like most or which to take!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s the same for me Nick, the cameras are always jostling for my attention and I’ve sometimes spent more time deciding which to take than doing the actual photography!

Steve, I share the same story. I started in 1981 with my first serious camera (Nikon F3) then switched to medium Format. I had my own darkroom for many years (sadly sold my CPE 2) and then switched to digital in 2004. After many years of gear porn in the digital world I went back to film and my darkroom again! I very much enjoy your chanel.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Theodor, there’s a lot of us with a similar story 🙂

So many things to discuss! First, I'm delighted for you that this channel gives you so much of a boost to get your excellent work out there. It has given me so much pleasure - it's not your average gear and bad photo site, but well produced, didactic without being preachy and just nicely relaxed. It's also lovely you shoot in a part of the country I really know little of. Finding an outlet for photos is beyond tough, social media is too often about likes not meaningful dialogue and sharing of joy, but it's an age old problem - if the new film shooters want the real analogue experience, sit through a slide show of my family holiday in Sweden, as I once did with a German Pioneer Brigadier... Second, I've switched from film (15-40) to digital(40-52) to film and now a bit of both. Colour film is just too expensive so I shoot digital solely for colour, but I do find I like digital black and white too, but in a different way, and frankly it saves me the tedium of scanning, which truly I loathe. I have access to a darkroom but for well over 9 months in the last 14 it's been shut for Covid reasons, so as a relative newcomer to printing, I just keep going backwards. I love black and white film (or some black and white films) so will always hover around the choice of medium. And yes, digital printing is so much easier, as is post processing! Gear - I've tried a lot, sold a lot less and now pretty much have what I need and want. It's a nice feeling given how film camera prices keep moving up. It has removed the thrill of the hunt though! But it's so good to see someone do something well thought through, produced and presented, with the bonus of some great shots. Creativity comes as much from study as innate capability, and I certainly think you've improved my photography!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for going through your story Charles, you’ve arrived at a similar point to me and for many of the same reasons. I’m no fan of scanning but it’s easier than making dozens of wet prints so I persevere with my 14 year old v700 and even older Minolta 5400. I get your point on colour digital and feel the same, fewer and fewer colour film choices priced too high for comfort. I’m sure you’ll get a chance to work in the darkroom again soon, it can be a steep learning curve but so rewarding.

I went full circle too. Started on film but couldn't afford it as a youth. I went full bore in 2007 when I got a Nikon D40. I got into video in 2014 here on YT as a motovlogger (now, just a vlogger). Now, I'm back on film after a paid photo gig reignited the fire for photography. Great topic man! Subbed...

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊. Interestingly I got a D40 back in 2008 and loved the look of those images - even the little kit lens was a good performer.

Thank you Steve for your films. Your Chanel is for me one of the best inspiration in my film photography journey. Greetings from Poland 🇵🇱

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Apoloniusz, I’m really glad you like the videos 👍

You have hit many nails on the head Steve. I think the biggest one for me is not having an outlet for my prints. Its very nice when family and friends admire your work, but. Not having constructive criticism, everything you point a camera at is going to be a masterpiece! This was alleviated by attending a print showing in Dublin twice a year. We will present 10 or so prints, give an explanation of them, then discuss. Some good pointers and possible remedies for problems. It was something to look forward to and inspired you to get out and make a masterpiece. However, this was pre plague. But hopefully we will get moving again soon. Great vlog Steve. Cheers Diz

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Diz and I hope the print showings resume soon. Maybe in the future people will start to value holding and looking at prints in person rather than the endless parade across the computer screen.

I started out with the first camera I'd owned in my life back in 2009, at the age 0f 47. a little Canon PAS digital. I used it for a few years, but then I met my partner in 2010, who was also into photography. she had a DSLR, and with her encouragement I bought a second hand Nikon D100, and since than have stuck with Nikon, slowly building up a decent kit. fast forward to 2015 and an old folding film camera (Zeiss Ikon, around 1936 vintage ) I bought at a camera market in South Australia where I live. was watching a video on here one night about them and thought it would be fun to put a roll of film through mine. BIG mistake...lol..after getting my pics back from the first roll I was hooked...I just loved the look of film and actually having something I could hold in my hand, compared to digital files on a computer. and so began a new journey, building a collection of 35mm, and medium format cameras that is now almost all I use, from mostly Nikons, to Mamiyas, Pentax, Olympus, Yashica's, Canon's and Leica's.. I do have a Nikon digital camera still, a Nikon D2x, but I'll never wear it out with the small amount of use it gets. as long as film is around I'll use it, and it will always be my preferred medium to use.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

It’s always interesting to see photographers who arrive at film from digital, many of us were brought up on film so it’s good to know that we aren’t just caught up with the nostalgia. 👍

Thanks for sharing your photographic history with us.

Absolutely agree regarding the use of black and white film over color, shooting B/W helps me focus on composition and generally helps to make scenes more dramatic. I was wondering if you’ve ever used or heard CMS 20 film, it’s a low iso B/W film from Adox that looks interesting if not prohibitively slow. Anyways loved the video, hope to see more vlogs detailing the reasoning behind your shoots!

@joeltunnah

3 жыл бұрын

I shot some CHS-100-ii recently, very nice. It’s somewhat like FP4 to my eyes. Good to see new emulsions out there.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’ve thought about using one of those microfilms for years but always been out off by the tonality. I should give one a run out in the 35mm Nikon with the best primes.

My name is Steve and I have GAS... But seriously I suspect a lot of people have followed a similar path. I looked at the cost of the early digital cameras, blenched, and did something else for a few years. Eventually I bought a 4MP point & shoot for a holiday and the rest, as they say, was predictable. I intend to stay with digital, for processing at least, because I can't dedicate a room to the dark side but although I listen respectfully I don't watch you for tips about film use. I simply enjoy hearing something of your thought process as you walk around. Your trips to your local forest in particular have radically changed the way I look at woodland - and the colour green. Due to the arthritis this sort of subject seems likely to be much more relevant to me in future than the hilltop stuff so its been great to get some insights. And I also feel that my growing preference for square format has been validated - Cropping 3x2 to 2x2 is NOT a waste of pixels!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Good point on format David and like you I am appreciating local woodland a lot more lately. At some point the mountains will become more challenging and I dont want to be left without any subject matter.

“Circa 1917” - really Steve? Such self-deprecating humour is like the spices added to a wonderful recipe. Don’t change a thing…love all you do Steve!! I am really enjoying your channel, your knowledge and presentation, along with your gorgeous images. Cheers.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you like the videos Mark🙂

Steve, you're a true gem here on YT. I also went from film to digital then over the past year, back to film. I still have a couple of high end Nikon DSLRs that still get some use but it is film that has my heart. I recently picked up my first medium format camera, an RB67, and am loving it....regardless of the weight! Keep up the inspiring and down to earth videos, they are greatly appreciated.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Bob and I hope the RB67 produces some great images. Failing that you’ll get a lot fitter lugging it about 😀

+1 re a darkroom being a faff. Mine is in the utility room, so there is a bit of work to get it operational and deoperational, which puts me off. That said, once up, I love it in there. This video serves as a good reminder not to sell my gear!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’d struggle with a temporary darkroom Richard, I even hate filing up my Nova tank with chemicals and drawing the black curtains! Cleanup time is a pain too but I usually do this while the fibre prints get an extended wash 😊

Make a book, Steve! Best way to display your work. Myself I’ve looked at your prints online (I just don’t have empty walls on which to display them). Books are a collectors dream. Stow easy and they bring a level of depth to a photographers work a single image never could. Oh, and film, digital, film. We all got suckered into the “miracle of digital” at least once. It’s a personal question. In some applications digital has a ton of workflow benefits. My experience is this... those who charge for services by the hour benefit from digital; those who control their own creative process often favour film.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Richard, maybe one day I’ll make a book 🙂. I would certainly use digital if I was up against time constraints or needed to shoot hundreds of frames!

I went through the same phase. Though I liked the tactile feel in the wet darkroom, getting a good print every time was not something I got down. Went to digital and lost the desire to photograph. Now I’m using both film and digital for alternative processing. Platinum palladium, carbon transfer, and gum oil. I’m loving it again.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I know what you mean about falling to her a good print John, this happens to me far too frequently and results in hours of lost time. I bet the results from the alternative processes look fantastic.

Loved the video and the story. I started with film in the 1970s with a secondhand Yashica TLR camera. Then went 35mm but never really liked the rectangular aspect ratio. I stopped doing photography for a while due to work and family. When I next picked up a camera it was mostly digital. Where I live all the camera stores and labs had closed so film was hard to get, especially medium format, and needed to be sent away to get processed. Now I shoot digital and have used a variety of formats from full frame down to point and shoots. At the moment, largely because of age and the fact my body doesn't work as well as it used to I shoot one camera and one lens (Canon M200 and 15-45mm kit lens). Definitely minimalist. I shoot landscapes, travel and macro. I still believe that shooting film was the real learning centre for photography and still have a medium format style workflow. I shoot like I only have 12 frames. So it is a slow and considered style. While my family regard this as boring and like to aim and shoot machine gun style I find the slow approach much more enjoyable. Thank you for sharing.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

It’s good to adopt a frugal approach to shooting John, I can never really do it with digital and get carried away. Like you I’m not a fan of the 3:2 aspect ratio which partly explains my liking for the M43 format.

Thank you Steve for sharing your story. I may be a few years older, but my trajectory was much like yours. We had a Yashica C, much like yours, when I was kid. By chance, my first SLR was an EM with two off-brand lenses and a Nikkor 50mm; remarkably, I believe all three would fit for use on my D810, definitely on the F5. Although I fell under the spell of Ansel Adams and LF photography, I made my living shooting and writing for newspapers. I didn't do much digitally until after I retired. Digital is perfect for photojournalism, I wish I had used one. My best work was all spontaneous, on the spot. I loved going out and having to get the shot that tells the story, on deadline. I was good at it and usually brought home the bacon. Btw, I've never had a Nikon fail me, ever. Digital is wonderful for what it can do, but it can't do what film does. I greatly admire the work you do; your product, and your approach to life. You have such a good eye for composition. It's ironic you that posted this today, because yesterday I decided to return a computer I had just purchased, sell my D810 and buy a nice 8x10 field camera and finish my darkroom. For me, digital is not worth dealing with all the tech bullshit, especially since what I what to do can only be done in a darkroom. Thanks Steve for all the many videos and images you've share with us all.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for taking the time to comment Michael and tell me some of your story. I’ve spent my working life with tech and increasingly find it frustrates me. When it works it is fantastic but as it ages and support drops off and you are left on your own. Contrast this with an old film camera that can still be used even a 100 years on prints that can be made with such basic equipment - it’s a marvel. I hope your journey with the 8x10 and darkroom go well ( as I’m sure they will). Every image made with a large format camera is memorable and teaches us more than a 1000 shots with a modem marvel.

Great story Steve, A mother/daughter photo store and studio has kept going for 35 years when the daughter was just a baby. Now she’s her mom’s look-alike. She digitized an ektachrome for me last week. I ask for film and the young woman said “no one has asked that for five years”. I said “vinyl’s back”... haha. I’m big on Amtrak. Special fare $19 Boston to DC. Next week I’m taking the night train 10h each way. About 15h in DC. Black and white-esques

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Hope you have a good trip Robert, it sounds like fun.

I started digital and was hooked with photography in the early 2000s then I saw a black and white print by Michael Kenna and well 2 years on I haven't touch my digital cameras and have enjoy photography way more now than in the past decade. Spot on Steve the way film renders black and white is unbeatable IMHO. Cheers

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Who wouldn’t be impressed by a Michael Kenna print Simon, glad to see you’re enjoying B&W film work 👍

Yes same for me apart from the fact that I never sold my film gear. I stopped using it and started collecting. One Christmas by accident I ended up buying most of my dream cameras for peanuts. I separately bought a blad and Rollei 2.8 and a Linhof. Didn’t really use them for a few yrs. but now I’m shooting 60% film. Through lockdown I tried to shoot a roll of 35 every day. Bulk loaded hp5 or Kodak Vision 3. Processed when I got home scanned and posted. Was very good. I like the process. I’m not printing so much mainly scanning. I’ve even been shooting street with the Linhof hand held. Results are fantastic, for me anyway. Love your Vids Steve keep them coming. The other thing I have been doing when i see them is buying dark rooms and then selling them on eBay. I’ve sold 3 Jobos in the last few months. They go for crazy money these days.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

You definitely did it the right way Richard, I should have been buying film gear ten years ago, not selling it 😢

I know where you'r coming from Steve. I too sold all my film and darkroom gear a few years ago to go digital but didn't really enjoy it as much and found myself buying a film camera (or two, Canon T90, F1n and Nikon F100) and slowly rebuilding a darkroom. But then had a loss of mojo and it all just sat there so I sold it and bought an X-T3. Now my interest is back again thankfully I still had my medium format stuff and most of the darkroom gear so not such a big hit this time. Picked up another T90 and a Minolta X700 ( More for nostalgia than anything) but I am enjoying the film process again. Great insight so thank you.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

It can be a very frustrating process Steve and I also suffer bouts of apathy from time to time. If I have a couple of fruitless trips or bad printing sessions I can lose interest but I usually get myself out as soon as possible and usually this gets the rhythm going again.

Great story. I agree that BW has the most appeal. Digital is just another film type as I see it. Instead of changing film rolls/sheets , we swap cameras to switch between types of "films" i.e. sensors. I'm going back to film because it's fun to try out some old gear that's still cheap. But nowadays former digital cameras have become even cheaper than film bodies. I've seen low shutter count Canon 1Ds mk3s for below 10% of the original price in today's money. I wonder if people even bother these days with the mirrorless hype. We are spoilt for good cheap gear both analog & digital now. A Sinar P2 for 900 quids!! Amazing times.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Lars. There are some great deals on early digital cameras, they can still offer great quality.

Hi Steve! Let me start by saying that you're channel, along side Nick Carver's one, is my favorite on youtube. I appreciate you're calm and positive energy, the trips and the beautiful images. I started with digital photography and about 10 years ago a bought my first film camera, a Canon AE1. From that moment I realize that I'm hook to film photography. I love when I get a really good image, and also love de disappointment when you see de film and it's rubbish. It's the mystery that keeps me going. For me, the best feeling is looking thru the ground glass of my Yashica Mat and seeing another reality, a different perspective. Salutations from Romania( I invite you to take a visit, it's a hidden gem), all the best.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, I am the same in that even a bad set of images can j spire me to shoot more. Not everything comes out well on film but when it does the feeling is amazing .

Steve, thanks so much for your efforts making these videos. I want to echo others' complements on your video as well as the stills -- you do a great job taking and editing the videos. Also like others I started young on film with a Nikon F2, lost interest, found digital, but fell in love with film once I realized it was still alive. The film process is another creative dimension of photography that has a fascination for me and many. My latest interest is on the topic of b&w photo-chemistry. Anchell and Troup's books are an insight into a whole new way to control the look of your b&w work. If you haven't tried it, I encourage any b&w photographer who develops film to take that next step in control and creativity and 'brew your own'. It's a deep subject; probably deserves its own channel.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

There’s a whole world in film development alone Dave, I’ve tried all sorts of different mixes in my time. I’ll admit though that I’m now leaning towards a more simple approach and cutting down the options, I ran out of space in my darkroom once with all the different films, papers and chemicals 😀

I guess I’m in your position too. Film to digital and now trying to get back into film. Haven’t been in the darkroom since ‘98 but luckily I still have a Mamiya RZ67 and find that the lenses are much more affordable now than when it was new. I’m trying to build up a darkroom currently and will probably stick to 35mm to start at least. I’m very excited to start this journey again. Im buying books and watching as many videos as I can to catch up on what’s changed, get reminded of things I already knew, or just enjoy the incredible amount of info available online. If only I’d had that back when I was a student. Your videos are some of my favorites, so thank you for the inspiration and knowledge. Justin in Austin, Texas, US

@SteveONions

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Justin. I'm in a similar position, I had a darkroom until about 1993 then got back into it in 2004. I was amazed how much information was around to help me and my work was soon a lot better than it had ever been in pre internet days. Simple darkroom tasks had to be learned the hard way pre year 2000 but being able to watch a video of someone demonstrating a technique is invaluable.

My mentor, Roger Mertin, (Plastic Love Dream) used to say, “If you can’t do it in b&w, do it in color. If you can’t do it in color do it big. If you can’t do it big go home.”. Like you, I’ve always preferred b&w. Maybe it’s because we see the world in color, and to see that world represented in shades of grey is different and (to me) more engaging. I’ve used everything up to 8x10, and my favorite was 4x5 using a Wista. I have to admit I’ve always liked sheet film over roll film because I could develop the negatives according to the lighting conditions I photographed them in. Like you (or as Darth said to Obi-wan, “The circle is complete.”) I’m back to film w/6x6 and I repurchased a Wista 4x5 w/ 90mm, 135mm and an APO 210mm. I enjoy your videos immensely. And of all the camera channels out there, yours is the only one I have the alerts turned on for.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kevin, I’m really glad that you enjoy the videos. Sheet film is certainly the most flexible as you say and it’s a shame that the weather I usually work in makes it tricky to use. I hope to do more 4x5 in the future but need to pick my subjects carefully.

Just want to thank you for your excellent videos. I am a retired Brit living in Philippines and a latecomer to serious photography. I use Fuji XT2 / XT3 but your channel has given me the interest to expand into film. All your fault, haha! After couple of tries with Pentax 35mm , I decided to go for 120 format. First camera was a Crystalstar TTL but results were not good. So after watching your videos, I purchased a Bronica SQAi from Japan. Very pleased with that. I am most grateful for your videos on Sekonic lightmeters and managed to get hold of a L-758 unit. Helping a lot with my Bronica. Though I live in a reasonably large city, there are no labs processing 120 film, so have had to develop it myself. I scan with the XT3 and 80mm macro lens. As I have plenty of time, I really enjoy the buzz of developing and scanning! I added Negative Lab Pro to Lightroom and find that an excellent tool. Like you, I am finding the Bronica system a bit too heavy particularly if I wanted to take the XT3 with a couple of lens as well. So while you have been a great guide in my journey so far, I am reluctant to follow you using vintage folding cameras! I have now managed to buy a Fuji GA 645wi camera which I am pleased to say is even lighter than my XT3 and will be my main colour film camera, with the Bronica mainly for B&W. Once again many thanks for helping me so much on this journey. Next step on the journey is using colour filters with B&W film and again your videos are being a great help with that. Will order some prints as a gesture of thanks for all your inspiring videos. Keep up the great work!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks John and many thanks again for ordering the prints, they are on their way to you. The Bronica is a bit hefty for carrying long distances and that little Fuji is excellent, I had the fully automatic 645i a few years ago. Scanning and digitising in general has come a long way in that we can now use our cameras to do the job, just a shame there are few, if any developing labs left. Having a spotmeter really helps me understand lighting, it’s not just the shadows that need metering, the highlights have to be considered carefully too. All the best.

I was talking to a camera club last night, by Zoom, with a talk called 'From film to Digital and Back Again'. I was saying very much the same thing as your introduction. I started with 35mm film cameras in the mid-1970's, moved up to medium format film cameras in the early 1990's and then converted to digital around 2005 and sold all my film gear. In the last 2 years, I've gone back to film cameras for my own use, while keeping my DSLR's for professional work. My favourite is a recently acquired Horseman 970 6x9cm. I'm also thinking of getting into 4x5 eventually (if I live long enough).

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Having a mix of systems is the way to go, I don’t see the point in limiting myself to just one camera for now. Digital and film can fore fill different needs and both have their strengths and weaknesses.

Similar story indeed! My journey started earlier with black and white film photography, medium format and then 35 mm (Minolta SRT 101). Had a darkroom or two, had to pack them up after each use so did not use much. My first digital camera was a Kodak 10 megapixel or something insane for $1000. Had lots of digital point and shoots and more recently APC and full frame digital. Happy with my photography but everyone seems to only use a fricken iPhone and over photoshoped images, replacing everything. I miss truth in photography! What you see is what you get, in camera. So back to square one with film and really enjoying it. Now I can use both mediums and very happy with slight adjustments to get correct contrast and exposure. I like your honesty Steve, and you love of photography.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Glenn and it’s good to see you shooting film alongside digital, no need to exclude either 👍

I’m new to photography as an art form (Less than 2 years). I spend 50% of my time digital and 50% with film. My problem until recently was gear acquisition syndrome. I now realize better quality and less items is better than a whole bunch of low end stuff. I need to keep a couple of good 35mm cameras and sell all the rest and buy a medium format camera. I do have a pretty nice digital camera but too many lower end lenses. At least I bought most of my stuff at thrift shops and can sell it and make a little money to put towards a good digital lens. I need to focus on the art form of photography and not the stuff. Thanks for all your lessons and advice on KZread all the best Jim from Georgia

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

You’re right James, less gear, better photos. Unlike digital however you can use fairly basic film equipment and still get good quality. Modern digital sensors show up any flaws in a lens whereas film is much more forgiving.

It’s wonderful that so many are getting back into film. My story is similar although my images aren’t nearly up to the quality of yours. My grandmother gifted my with an Ansco P&S back in the day, but i didn’t really get into photography until a friend gifted me a used canon AE-1 P about 30 yrs ago. I did photography 101 darkroom work as an elective in college and always wanted to set up a darkroom but the equipment was too expensive back then. Avoided digital until around 2007 when I decided to get into photographing my pets. As per the usual story, I upgraded camera models thinking that would increase the quality of my images. But there was always something missing. Thanks to those of you sharing your film work and processes on you tube, I’ve also gotten back into film. And even purchased a Bronica SQ after being inspired by your images along with a few others using the same format. And am also considering setting up a darkroom since the equipment has become affordable. I like monochrome too and it fits as inspiration for my artwork which I’ve mentioned on your channel before. Any hoot... thanks for all that you do. Looking forward to seeing more!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I hope you are enjoying the Bronica and as you say, darkroom gear is now affordable. It was being given away 15 years ago but when I started an enlarged was a pricey item.

I'm glad you've chosen to share your work! Out of the countless photographers I follow on here, you've had by far the greatest impact on my photography. Keep up the great work!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the kind words 🙂

I've been watching and enjoying your channel for several years now, and I really appreciate the effort you put in to them. Yours is one of my favorite channels, and I think one of the best photography channels on youtube. Thanks!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you, that’s very kind 😊

Always look forward to your videos Steve. I learn something new in each of them whether it’s a new technique, perfecting a technique or a new, to me, camera. Keep the videos coming, they are anticipated like a surprise package in the mail.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Peter, I appreciate the feedback.

one of the best photo channels out there, positive and informative.

@SteveONions

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Inigo.

NIce upload. I think a lot of photographers journeys will be the same as yours - mine certainly is. I started in the eighties with a Nikon F3 and progressed from there, then I sold everything in the early 2000's and went digital, which over time I became more diffident about. Point, shoot, chimp, point, shoot, chimp etc etc. I have now bought back nealy all I sold and some more besides, my darkroom is a film bag and the bathroom, the fridge is stuffed full of B&W film stock, and I couldn't be happier.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Glad to see someone else’s fridge getting used for the right purpose 😊. When my wife want some of the space in my ‘photography’ fridge I point out the fact that each drawer holds more £££ than the fridge cost!!

great video Steve and really nice to hear about your photographic journey. I started out with point and shoot analog cameras back in the 90's, then digital cameras from 2008 onwards until 5-6 years ago where I really got into analog photography, trying out many different cameras, 35mm and medium format then eventually building a darkroom in the 2nd bathroom. It's all on hold a little as I'm concentrating mainly on video at the moment, making videos for my 13 year old son and his KZread channel. It's a passion we discovered last year during the first lockdown and something that helps us bond. Once he will be able to everything himself no doubt I'll be locking myself away in the darkroom once again.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s a great story and so good to see you working on KZread for your son. I’m sure you will get the darkroom sorted this year 👍

Loved this backstory! Thank you for sharing it. I've been genuinely inspired by your videos and your B&W photos are becoming pretty iconic imo

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

Hi Steve, I've followed a very similar path, coming from film cameras in the early 70s, doing darkroom prints, even Cibachrome, and then my interest in photography kind of vanished with the beginning of the digital era, the personal business and family... then fully digital with top notch cameras ASPC, Micro 4/3 then full frame and even medium format digital but fell in love again with film, ind 135, medium format and 4x5 now ; I develop my BW and C41 films at home, but do not have made the step back into the darkroom, punt doing inkjet quality prints but also alternative printing (cyanotype, ferrotypes...). But in your video you have said it all better than I will ever do. Thanks !

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Sounds like a similar story to mine Bernard. I do like the hybrid workflow but also enjoy the option to darkroom print, it’s the best of both worlds and there’s no need to choose one route exclusively.

Your channel is a great source of inspiration and very educational too. Thank you Steve and keep up the good work!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

Thanks for all of your videos Steve. I really enjoy them. Whether you use film or digital there is always something to learn from photographers like you.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ken 🙂

I've shot film for years since being gifted my Dad's Pentax K1000 in 2012. Bought a DSLR shortly after that but got so frustrated moving sliders in Lightroom I've stuck with film ever since. Your videos among others inspired me to start taking the hobby a bit more seriously about 18 months ago while I was working in America for a bit, and I set up a darkroom once I got back to the UK. I feel like I'm at that point you describe of having lots of prints in boxes and not knowing where to go with it next, but luckily I've not yet lost my enthusiasm for making photographs just for my own enjoyment. I really hear what you're saying with regards to sharing on Instagram being a hollow experience and I think I probably won't be doing that much moving forwards. I'm a bit unsure about starting vlogging though!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Marc, glad to see you enjoying film with the K1000. I spent years making prints and it was a lot easier pre-digital as people wanted to see them, no on-screen sharing then. It’s tough now as everyone expects to have an image shared electronically and few people have physical copies.

I watch several of you film photographers from the UK and that's what keeps my interest alive. Thank you for taking time to put these videos out. I am grateful

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting and your continued support Tony.

Started with film and rapidly switched to digital, came back to film 3 years ago. At the end of last year I was tired my lab closure/opening/closure with the pandemic lockdowns, I started developping my black and white film. I have now take care of what I disliked the most about film, going to the lab and waiting. I can nom shoot in the morning and look at my scan in the afternoon. I am now in the process of shooting almost exclusively on black and white film and probably exclusively medium format only (not sure if I want to still shoot 35 mm). Never had a darkroom not have the plan to get one, I just do not have the space at ht home to do that. I still use digital for my bird phtography (those seventies and eighties film photographer were king of the mountain to get wildlife shot like they did), my use of manual focus is not up to par with the speed of a Mocking bird so I still have to rely on my digital modern camera for that.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s a good mix of equipment Nelson, not sure I’d ever use film for wildlife either. I also dislike waiting for a lab to process my films and like you I’ve often got them scanned within 24hrs of taking the shot.

Thank you Steve for sharing I have watched all your videos and this is your best so far, it gives us a story of yourself where you’ve been. Very heartfelt, thank you again.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank Andrew.

Very similar story to you Steve. I started with an OM2n in 1980 then switched to a Nikon F3 for several years. Bought an F4 when it came out (1989?). Went digital with a Nikon D70s. Bought a Fuji Xpro1, which is the only digital camera I still own, but hardly ever use. Since 2013 it’s been film all the way. I’ve become an accidental collector of medium format cameras, most of which I do actually use😆 Like you, I prefer b&w and find I’m shooting less and less colour. I’m loving the darkroom as much as the shooting.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Very similar route indeed Mike and glad to see the darkroom getting used. I’ve also gone through that journey only to end up back at the beginning but it just feels good to be honest.

Yes, My story is similar. Sold all my darkroom equipment for £35 four yeas ago as I had nowhere to use it and we were de-cluttering to move house. Only then to buy a house with a totally dark basement with electric and heating. Mine is cold in the summer and warm in the winter! So just building up my darkroom bits again, yes it costs more than selling. An outlet is the key. My wife dislikes B&W so my outlet is the local photographic society competitions. For B&W next season my aim is to get some points for a darkroom print. Last season my film / hybrid prints, best not to talk about them but I am ever hopeful. My experience so far is that my M43 trumps my SQ-a but I am getting better with film and see if the darkroom delivers. If nothing else, it is fun, sometimes very satisfying and the cameras easy to use. No taking a batch of digital images only to discover you left those odd settings from last time. Have discoverred how bad "chimping" is for you, train the eye.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

I’m jealous of your built in darkroom Neville and hope you get to make full use of it in the future. I struggled with a hybrid workflow initially then struggled again to rediscover my darkroom skills but in time it all came back. Good luck with the compositions and camera settings!

Well Steve, great story . You got me re-inspired to try film again . Been honing my skills on my 6x6 and this weekend, breaking out the 4x5 . All CLA'd and checked for light leaks. I had some old rangefinders , I've been shooting with and put a roll of color film through one. Even bought a C41 kit. But, i have fell in love with B&W . I also bought a 5pk of Fujicolor Pro 400H. Once I shoot and process the color film, I think for color work, I'm going to stay with digital . I'm using a hybrid system, scanning the film. I get good grayscale , with my Canon printer . When I sold all my 35mm system, to buy digital, something, told my to keep the 6x6 and 4x5 and the rangefinders are collectors. Rangefinders have been put into B&W service , too. Again, thanks for the inspiration and keeping the vids coming. Ken B.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Congratulations on not selling off the rollfilm cameras Ken, which I’d done the same. The hybrid workflow produces excellent results and I still are the majority of the images for my vlogs this way. The printers are also excellent too and can reproduce a terrific range of mid tones. Hope you get the cha be to use the 400h and home develop it in the C-41 kit 👍

@kenblair2538

3 жыл бұрын

@@SteveONions Thanks Steve. Everything is a little bland , here in Massachusetts. Perfect for B&W. Waiting for more spring like color, and summer colors to start photographing with color. Ken.

My journey exactly. Thanks for sharing!

Great video Steve! I've also had a similar experience, all be it in a much shorter time frame. I discovered photography through the digital format back in 2016. I started shooting black and white film around a year later after inheriting my Grandad's Canon AE-1. Film taught me so much more about photography and, as you have said in previous videos, just helped me slow down and become less trigger happy. I setup a darkroom at home this year and find the whole process so rewarding. Thanks for all of your great content, I've learnt so much from your videos!

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

That’s great to see you’ve setup a darkroom already Christian, it’s such a great way to learn about making images. I was in mine last night and it taught me that I should have reduced the development of the negative I was printing! More on that in an upcoming video.

Very interesting to hear your story, Steve. I followed a similar path. Started with film in 1985, but only 35mm and I didn't have a darkroom. Switched to digital around 1997/98, basically as soon as digital was available. Started dabbling in film again in 2011 and have been shooting film almost exclusively since 2013, mostly medium format (Hasselblad V System and then Hasselblad H) with some 35mm and large format. I set up a home darkroom 5 years ago. Now I mostly shoot large format and recently bought an Intrepid 10x8. My current obsession is shooting paper negatives.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

A very similar journey Roger, having such a range of film cameras always keeps things interesting. Glad to see darkroom work in there too as the industry needs us to keep buying paper if it’s to remain viable.

You’ve been an inspiration for for 2 years that led to a 14 day trip to Snowdonia . in the fall of 2020.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Peter, I hope your big trip to Snowdonia was a good one.

I rarely comment, but just wanted to say that your channel and photos are just great. Really helped me to grow. Much appreciated Steve.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Tim, that’s kind of you to say 🙂

Quite a journey, Steve, I most definitely love watching your film photography art. It brings back memories of teenager me and my friend in the cellar / dark room developing black and white photos taken with a Sea Gull Chinese camera and using a home made device . Still have the old pics. Love your art and I will keep following your videos.

@SteveONions

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sorin, glad you kept hold of your old pictures too, a real treasure to look back on.