Field Guide, Vlog Kwame Johnson Field Guide, Vlog Kwame Johnson

Capturing the Truth: The Case for Smartphone Photography as a Genuine Pursuit of Visual Excellence!

In recent years, smartphone photography has made significant strides, challenging the long-held belief that it falls short of traditional photography. With advancements in mobile camera technology, photographers now have access to professional-grade tools right in their pockets. The versatility and convenience of smartphones empower individuals to explore their creativity and express themselves in ways that were once exclusive to those with high-end equipment. Moreover, the ubiquity of smartphones has democratized photography, allowing for the documentation of diverse perspectives and stories from all corners of the world.

My current mobile setup is below:

Phone

MagSafe tripod mount

Magnetic iPhone Tripod Mount

Read More
Review Kwame Johnson Review Kwame Johnson

Get This Instead Of The Fujifilm X100 | Fujifilm XF10 Review

In this video, I review the FujiFilm XF 10 camera and why it's as a great alternative to the FujiFilm X100 line. I share how the camera's compact size and unintrusiveness are perfect for an everyday carry camera. I love Fuji's film recipes feature that can be used to produce great pictures in straight JPEGs. I believe that the camera's image quality is excellent and that the full 24-megapixel APS sensor allows for great-quality images that can be printed big and cropped down. Plus so much more.

Fujifilm XF10

Buy on Amazon

Today, I wanted to talk about the Fujifilm XF10 and why I think it's a great alternative to the Fujifilm X100 line. I had been wanting to do this review for a while, but I decided to hold off until I could use it again. I hadn't used it in a while, since I got the Ricoh GR iiix and I really wanted to form an opinion.

 

To be honest, I was getting ready to pick up a regular Ricoh GR iii, but this little camera changed my mind. I've canceled any plans of getting a new camera because of how fun this camera is. It has an APSC sensor inside this tiny body, which is just like the Ricoh line. It fits in any pocket and is very unintrusive, making it a great everyday carry camera.

One of my favorite features of this camera are the many Fujifilm recipes. There are websites with other recipes you can create to dial in the camera and get some really cool pictures. I shoot this camera in JPEG and can manipulate them a little bit. The image quality of this camera is second to none.

Yes, there are some things I wish it had, but this is a great alternative to the Fujifilm X100, which is hard to get or expensive. This camera has a full 24 megapixel APS sensor, so you can print big, crop, and do a lot of work with a 24 megapixel image. If you shoot raw, you can really get some detail out of this little camera.

The size is really cool, and I like the ring you can move around, the dials and buttons up top, and the joystick. You can set up the camera to take pictures when you press the screen, or do touch to focus. There are so many features and ways to set up the camera to make it your own.

Read More
Review Kwame Johnson Review Kwame Johnson

ULANZI Versatile Camera Shoulder Bag Review: The Best EDC Drone Bag

In this video, I'm reviewing the ULANZI Versatile Camera Shoulder Bag. It's a six-liter bag and has a rubber outer coating, three compartments, and two handles. It's perfect for the drone because it's small and compact. I can fit my extra phone, extra battery, cable, small rig multi-tool, AirPod Pros, DJ Mini, controller, cable, and two cameras. It also has two extra pockets and a webbing pouch for SD cards. The strap is nylon with metal adjusters. It's a great bag, but it doesn't have a pocket for a mini tripod or a water bottle. Click the link below for more info and to buy. Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter.

Show notes:

Newsletter | My gear page

Products links:

ULANZI Camera Shoulder Bag

Sony A7 ii

Sony 90mm F2.8

Ricoh GRiiix

Fujifilm XF10

Read More
Field Trip Kwame Johnson Field Trip Kwame Johnson

Breaking the Cycle of Creativity: How I'm Getting Out of My Rut

As a photographer, I have always found solace in capturing the beauty of the world through my lens. However, lately, I have been struggling to find the time and inspiration to get out and take pictures as much as I would like. The monotony of everyday life and the demands of my other responsibilities have left me feeling stuck in a creative rut. In this video, I want to share with you how I am trying to break free from this rut and reignite my love for photography.

Gear used:

DJI Mavic Mini - https://amzn.to/3krk0i9

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Read More
Field Trip Kwame Johnson Field Trip Kwame Johnson

The Last Walk With My Sony A6100

The Sony A6100 is a fantastic camera that I use almost every day. But the one feature that is lacking is in body image stabilization. In this video, I'll explain why I'm upgrading to the Sony A6600, spoiler alert I'm not getting rid of the A6100.

Gear I used:

Sony A6100 Review: https://youtu.be/0yqFW1X824g

Sony A6100 - https://amzn.to/30ORIBt

Sony 70-350mm F4.5 - https://amzn.to/3BZ0qNo

Ricoh GRiiix - https://amzn.to/3P9gjZg

I love going to the same place over and over to see the changes in the environment and I always find new things to photograph.

Read More
Field Guide Kwame Johnson Field Guide Kwame Johnson

Why the Sony A7II is the Perfect Choice for Photographers in 2023

The Sony A7II is a highly respected camera with excellent image quality, a versatile autofocus system, and durability. It also has a full-frame sensor and a wide range of features that make it suitable for various photography styles, including portrait, landscape, and action. Overall, the Sony A7II is a reliable and powerful camera that may be worth considering for photographers looking for a high-quality option in 2023.

I've been using the Sony a7 II for three years now and it has become one of my favorite cameras. If you're considering getting this camera, let me tell you, you won't regret it. In this blog post, I'll give you seven reasons why you should pick up the Sony a7 II in 2023.

  1. High Image Quality: The Sony a7 II has a full-frame CMOS sensor with 24 megapixels, providing excellent ISO and dynamic range. This means that you can take great photos in any lighting condition, whether it be low light or bright daylight. This sensor was top-of-the-class when it was released, and even though it's an older camera now, it still takes amazing pictures. If you're a hobbyist or looking to upgrade to a full-frame camera, this sensor still delivers great results.

  2. 5-Axis Image Stabilization: The Sony a7 II has in-body image stabilization, meaning that any lens you attach to the camera will have image stabilization. This is especially helpful for shooting in low light or shooting video. The 5-axis image stabilization helps to eliminate camera shake and produce sharp photos.

  3. Fast Autofocus: The Sony a7 II has fast autofocus, which is great for capturing fast-moving subjects. The autofocus system uses 117 phase-detection points and 25 contrast-detection points for accurate and fast focusing. This means you won't miss any important moments when you're trying to capture them.

  4. Video Capabilities: The Sony a7 II can record 1080p video at up to 60 frames per second, making it a great option for videographers. The camera also has the ability to record in XAVC S format, which is a high-quality video format. The in-body image stabilization also helps with recording video, making it smoother and less shaky.

  5. Interchangeable Lenses: The Sony a7 II uses Sony's E-mount, which means you have access to a wide range of lenses. Whether you're into landscape photography, portraits, or sports photography, there's a lens for you. Having interchangeable lenses gives you the flexibility to get the exact shot you want.

  6. Durability: The Sony a7 II is built to last. It has a solid magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. Whether you're shooting in the rain or in harsh conditions, the Sony a7 II is built to withstand the elements.

  7. Affordable Price: For its features and capabilities, the Sony a7 II is a very affordable full-frame camera. It's a great option for those who want the benefits of a full-frame camera but don't want to break the bank. With its features and price, the Sony a7 II is a great value for anyone looking to upgrade their camera.

The Sony A7 II is a great camera for those who want a full-frame option without spending a lot of money. Its high image quality, fast autofocus, video capabilities, interchangeable lenses, durability, and affordable price make it a great option in 2023. If you're in the market for a new camera, I would definitely recommend the Sony A7 II.

Products links:

Sony A7ii Review: https://youtu.be/jRD3I1UA6iI

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Sony 24mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/2TO8kWd

Samyang 35 F1.8 - https://amzn.to/2Vz7ocE

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/3hiPAdo

Sony 90mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/35q8fkK

Battery Grip - https://amzn.to/3fOV8Jo

Read More
Review Kwame Johnson Review Kwame Johnson

My 4 Essential Photography Gear of 2022 + 1 Bonus

It’s crazy to think 2022 is coming to a close. Today I wanted to share some of my favorite photography gear I picked up in 2022.

Ricoh GR iiix - https://amzn.to/3P9gjZg

Sony 90mm - https://amzn.to/3CYIgiR

PGYTech OneGo Solo - https://amzn.to/3FEj4it

Cobalt Image - https://www.cobalt-image.com/ Save 20% with coupon code "!Xmas22"

Kindle Scribe - https://amzn.to/3W2KaVN


Read More
Field Guide Kwame Johnson Field Guide Kwame Johnson

The photography gear I used at Disneyland

Bags:

Lowepro Truckee - https://amzn.to/3gQCFlI

PGYTech Camera Sling - https://amzn.to/3gK1pMG

Camera and Lenses:

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/3hiPAdo

Tamron 17-28mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/3GU8XH6

Ricoh GR IIIx - https://amzn.to/3VyuglD

DJI Osmo Action - https://amzn.to/3ldQyZk

Accessories

SNAP Mount Pro - https://amzn.to/3imRb54

Sirui Mini Tripod - https://amzn.to/3GUREpx

Apple SD Card Reader - https://amzn.to/3GUbj8V

USB-C SD Card Reader - https://amzn.to/3ionC35

Computer and iPad

Macbook Air M1 - https://amzn.to/3udBFuY

iPad Pro 12.9in - https://amzn.to/3ONkYjS

Read More
Field Guide Kwame Johnson Field Guide Kwame Johnson

Tamron 17-28mm and 28-200mm Review | The most practical lens combination for travel

The Tamron 17-28mm and 28-200mm lenses are the best two lens combination I've ever used. I will share my experience with them in this video and show you examples.

Buy them here 👇🏾

Tamron 17-28mm f2.8 - https://amzn.to/3Va1UOW

Tamron 28-200mm - https://amzn.to/3UcVwoM


Tamron 17-28mm eamples

Landscape examples.

Tamrom 28-200mm examples.

In everyday use, the Tamron 28-200mm lens is more than sharp enough. Whether it’s low light, harsh bright light, or using it to take a self-portrait this lens can deliver.

I’ve used the Tamron 28-200mm as my primary lens for a few years and still love using it on vacations and when going out on day trips. The versatility for the price is amazing.

Read More
Field Guide Kwame Johnson Field Guide Kwame Johnson

Using the Ricoh GR IIIx as my everyday camera | It's not just for street photography 📸

The Ricoh GR IIIx has been my everyday carry camera for more than 8 months, it literally goes everywhere with me. In this video, I will share sample pictures and explain why I like this camera. This is NOT a camera for everyone but for people who really love photography and the photographic process.


@Samuel Streetlife
GR IIIx review - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIcx-OnJxd0
@EYExplore
Ricoh Gr IIIx Street settings - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNzG9KcxWw8

@RICOHGRPHOTOGRAPHY - https://www.youtube.com/c/RICOHGRPHOTOGRAPHY

The Ricoh GR IIIx is great for quick pictures when we’re hanging out with family or just out and about. Since it can fit in my pants pocket I tend to take it everywhere with me.

The power of the GR IIIx is when doing street photography. Being able to us zone focusing it’s really easy to snap away when people are within the focus parameters. I don’t do a ton of street photography but it’s nice to have, when the opportunity come about.

Being out in nature is one of my favorite things to do. Even though a 40mm lens isn’t ideal for landscapes, I find the GR IIIx more than capable of capturing great images.

After using the Ricoh GR IIIx for almost 9 months my favorite feature is the close up mode. I know Ricoh says macro but it’s not really macro. Being able to press a button and get close to an object is really fun. And while it doesn’t rival my Sony 90mm macro lens, it’s really nice to have when I don’t want to bring that lens and the Sony A7ii .

Overall I am really happy with the Ricoh GR IIIx purchase. It really is the best camera I own because it goes everywhere with me. And as Mr. Chase Jarvis once said “The best camera is the one with you.”

Show notes:

Ricoh GR IIIx - https://amzn.to/3X2iDoM

Thumb Grip - https://amzn.to/3OaycXC

See the pictures here 👉🏾 https://kwame.me/blog

My gear page - Kwame.me/gear

Follow me!

WEBSITE ► www.Kwame.me

FLICKR ► https://flic.kr/ps/3T6yWm

GLASS► https://bit.ly/KJGlass

Newsletter ► http://bit.ly/36ZeUji

Read More
Field Guide Kwame Johnson Field Guide Kwame Johnson

What I’ve been up too 🤷🏾‍♂️

Hey, it's been a while. This is a quick update on what I've been up to the last few months. I took a small break from the channel and photography, to clear my head and focus on the next chapter in my life.

My daily photography gear:

Sony A7ii Review: https://youtu.be/jRD3I1UA6iI

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Sony 90mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/35q8fkK

Follow me!

WEBSITE ► www.Kwame.me

FLICKR ► https://flic.kr/ps/3T6yWm

GLASS► https://bit.ly/KJGlass

Newsletter ► http://bit.ly/36ZeUji

Read More
Field Trip Kwame Johnson Field Trip Kwame Johnson

Fall Family Nature Walk - Complete Lightroom workflow from import to editing

This past weekend we were finally able to get out as a family on a little hike. We visited two new locations; Soaring Eagle Regional Park and Chinook Bend Natural Area. It felt great to get out with a camera again. This time I brought the Sony A7ii with 90mm f2.8 macro lens and the Ricoh GR iiix.

Here are the pictures from both locations. I plan on shooting videos from both locations in the near future.

Read More
Field Trip Kwame Johnson Field Trip Kwame Johnson

2022 Fathers Day Road Trip To The Oregon Coast

Over this past Father's Day weekend we took a road trip to Rockaway Beach. We also checked out a nurture preserve and a few other places. I mainly used my Ricoh GR iiix and Sony A7ii with the Sony 90mm macro lens on this trip.

🙋🏾‍♂️ I have a podcast 👉🏾 Podcast

I want you on the show 👉🏾 https://bit.ly/KwameGuest

See the pictures here 👉🏾 https://kwame.me/blog

My gear page - Kwame.me/gear

My daily photography gear:

Sony A7ii Review: https://youtu.be/jRD3I1UA6iI

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Sony 90mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/35q8fkK

Follow me!

WEBSITE ► www.Kwame.me

FLICKR ► https://flic.kr/ps/3T6yWm

GLASS► https://bit.ly/KJGlass

Newsletter ► http://bit.ly/36ZeUji

Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach Old Growth Nature Preserve

Short

Read More
Podcast Kwame Johnson Podcast Kwame Johnson

Yahnny Adolfo San Luis: quit her 9 to 5 to become a sports and travel photographer.

For 15 years Yahnny owned her own very stable business, while at the same time building up a sports and travel photography company. Now she lives in Sweden photographing sports, leading travel adventures, advocating for women of color in sports photography, and more. In this episode, Yahnny shares her photography journey, tips for people who want to become professional sports photographers, and a few travel photography tips for anyone using a smartphone to DSLR.

Show notes:

Yahnny’s Website - https://www.yahnnybly.com/

Italy Trip Info - https://www.yahnnybly.com/en/journeys/hidden-gems-of-piemonte-italy

Twitter - https://twitter.com/yahnnysanluis

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yahnny_sanluis

Jay Maisel - https://www.jaymaisel.com

Ara Guler - https://www.araguler.com.tr/

I want you on the show 👉🏾 https://bit.ly/KwameGuest

See the pictures here 👉🏾 https://kwame.me/blog

My gear page - Kwame.me/gear

My daily photography gear:

Sony A7ii Review: https://youtu.be/jRD3I1UA6iI

Sony A7 ii - https://amzn.to/38OLEdL

Sony 24mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/2TO8kWd

Samyang 35 F1.8 - https://amzn.to/2Vz7ocE

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/3hiPAdo

Sony 90mm F2.8 - https://amzn.to/35q8fkK

Battery Grip - https://amzn.to/3fOV8Jo

Follow me!

WEBSITE ► www.Kwame.me

FLICKR ► https://flic.kr/ps/3T6yWm

GLASS► https://bit.ly/KJGlass

Newsletter ► http://bit.ly/36ZeUji

Read More
Podcast Kwame Johnson Podcast Kwame Johnson

Are Smartphone Pictures "Real" Photography? | THP EP 06

If you use an iPhone or Android phone to take pictures are you a "real" photographer? I'm going to answer that question in this episode of The Happy Photographer. Smartphones are always with us and are getting better every year. They have already overtaken point-and-shoot camera sales.

Show notes:

I want you on the show 👉🏾 https://bit.ly/KwameGuest

Leave me a voice mail ☎️ https://podinbox.com/Kwame

My gear page - Kwame.me/gear

Read More
Podcast Kwame Johnson Podcast Kwame Johnson

Local Travel Photography Is A Great Way To Develop Your Photography Style | THP EP 05

Local travel photography is a great way to develop your photography style. Watching YouTube videos, reading books, and looking at pictures are good ways to learn. But in order to grow and develop your style you have to get out and take pictures. Exploring local areas will help you get out of your comfort zone and get you more practice.

Show notes:

I want you on the show 👉🏾 https://bit.ly/KwameGuest

Leave me a voice mail ☎️ https://podinbox.com/Kwame

My gear page - Kwame.me/gear

Read More
Vlog Kwame Johnson Vlog Kwame Johnson

A Morning Nature Walk with the Ricoh GRiiix & Fujifilm XF10 | POV Macro

Most of the pictures are straight out of camera JPEGS. Some have been slightly edited in Lightroom.

📸 My Photography POV Kit

► Ricoh GRiiix - https://amzn.to/3P9gjZg

► Fujifilm XF10 - https://amzn.to/3w1vY45

► Osmo Action - https://amzn.to/3ldQyZk

Read More