For years, I had searched for the perfect lens-sensor combination; a lens and camera duo that would produce a beautiful image with few adjustments and little post-processing. It would look REAL straight out of camera (SOOC) and be everything I needed and wanted in a camera system. However, as I tested each pair, they all told a different story, and would deliver light to the sensor differently. So, I began tweaking settings, jotting down notes (on index cards) for each lens-sensor combination I tried. I soon realized I needed a database to access all my settings & LUTs, and created my website.
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In this episode, we break down the complexities of camera shot types, lens choices, and sensor sizes. We propose a simple system: use “wide,” “tight,” and “tele” shots instead of the traditional categories, and match each with the ideal sensor size—full-frame for wide shots, micro 4/3 for tight and tele. The episode covers lens distortion, working distances, and why using multiple cameras improves editing and storytelling.
Introduction to Shot Types and Standardization (00:00:01)
Explains the need to simplify shot types to wide, tight, and tele, and the importance of lens and sensor size.
Defining Wide, Tight, and Tele Shots (00:01:25)
Describes what each shot type covers visually and why focusing on the look is more universal.
Lens Focal Lengths and Sensor Crop Factors (00:03:53)
Discusses how different focal lengths and sensor sizes affect image composition and distortion.
Non-Destructive Focal Lengths and Distortion (00:05:15)
Explains the concept of non-destructive focal lengths and how wide-angle lenses introduce distortion.
Rectilinear vs. Fisheye Lenses (00:06:42)
Covers the development of rectilinear wide-angle lenses and the visual effects of wide-angle distortion.
Wide-Angle Distortion in Real-World Use (00:08:53)
Gives real estate photography as an example of wide-angle distortion and its impact on perception.
Standardizing Shot Lists for Production (00:11:02)
Describes the practical approach of always using multiple shots (wide, tight, tele) for editing flexibility.
Sensor Size and Working Distance (00:12:09)
Explains how sensor size and lens focal length determine camera distance and shot composition.
Portraits, Working Distance, and Distortion (00:14:39)
Discusses traditional portrait focal lengths and how working distance affects distortion in headshots.
Macro Photography and Sensor Considerations (00:15:58)
Explains macro working distance and how sensor size impacts focus and composition.
Simplifying Shot Setup with Templates (00:17:03)
Introduces the idea of treating each shot type as a separate job, often requiring different cameras.
Assigning Camera Systems to Shot Types (00:19:43)
Explains the benefits of using different sensor sizes for each shot type rather than sticking to one system.
Telephoto Shots: Micro 4/3 Advantages (00:22:04)
Argues that Micro 4/3 is best for telephoto shots due to cost, size, and stabilization benefits.
Medium (Tight) Shots: Sensor Flexibility (00:26:57)
Discusses options for medium shots, favoring Micro 4/3 and crop sensors for practicality and cost.
Wide Shots: Full Frame Superiority (00:30:25)
Explains why full frame cameras are best for wide shots due to less distortion and more realistic rendering.
Historical Perspective on Focal Lengths (00:33:07)
Reflects on the historical use of 35mm for wide shots and its realistic look in photojournalism.
Conclusion: Assigning the Right Tool for Each Job (00:34:20)
Summarizes the approach of matching sensor size and lens to the shot type for optimal results.
Budget (Micro Four Thirds) Cameras
mardi 1 juillet 2025 • Durée 35:28
In this episode, we dive into our passion for budget video production, sharing our experiences with affordable cameras and lenses like the Panasonic GH5 and G85. We talk about how learning to master custom settings can really make budget equipment stand out, and we reflect on how the used gear market is always changing. We also get into why it’s important to understand lens and sensor compatibility, especially when you’re adapting older lenses. In the end, we encourage you to experiment with budget-friendly options and remind you that you don’t need to spend a fortune to make great content.
Appreciation for Budget Gear (00:00:00)
Speaker expresses gratitude for budget video gear and discusses YouTubers' influence on gear perceptions.
Starting Out with Budget Panasonic Cameras (00:01:22)
Describes early experiences using Panasonic G5 and G3 cameras, and the importance of manual lens control.
Custom Settings for Better Quality (00:02:39)
Explains how custom picture profiles and settings can make budget gear look professional.
Comparing Budget and Pro Cameras (00:04:00)
Shares a story comparing Panasonic G5 footage to Canon C100, emphasizing lens and sensor combinations.
Moving to Newer Budget Cameras (00:06:24)
Talks about upgrading to the G85 and G8, and the focus on in-camera custom settings and LUTs.
Thankfulness for Budget Gear and YouTubers (00:07:28)
Reflects on the value of budget gear and YouTubers like Nigel Barros who maximize older cameras.
HOW TO: Adapt Old Lenses for Micro Four Thirds
vendredi 13 juin 2025 • Durée 55:04
In this episode, I talk about my own experiences adapting vintage and third-party lenses to micro four-thirds cameras, especially if you’re on a budget. I go over the ups and downs of different mounts—like Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Minolta, Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina. I also get into using speed boosters, what they can do, and the risks that come with them. Plus, I recommend some specific lenses that I’ve personally tested and liked. I try to keep things practical and based on what actually works, not just theory, and I invite you to check out my website for more detailed guides and camera settings.
Introduction & Episode Context (00:00:00)
What is this episode about?
Micro Four Thirds & Budget Cameras (00:01:11)
Explains focus on Micro Four Thirds cameras, budget gear.
Website & Lens Database (00:03:38)
Describes the website’s purpose as a lens/camera settings database and lists major brands tested.
Miscellaneous & M42 Lenses (00:04:46)
Covers M42 screw mount, Pentax, and mentions brands on the radar but not yet tested.
Minolta & Sony A-Mount History (00:07:21)
Explains Minolta’s transition to Sony, Minolta AF/Sony A-mount compatibility, and recommendations for budget lenses.
Lens List Organization (00:11:09)
Discusses how lens lists are sorted and details about Quantaray as a rebranded Sigma/Tamron store brand.
Rokinon, Sakar, and Vivitar (00:13:37)
Shares experiences with Rokinon, dismisses Sakar, and explains Vivitar’s variable quality and Series 1 designation.
Adapt Canon FD Lenses? (to Micro Four Thirds)
mardi 3 juin 2025 • Durée 27:01
After running into problems like fungus in vintage Canon lenses and dealing with adapters that just didn’t work well, I finally decided to stop collecting Canon glass. In this episode, I talk about my own experience adapting Canon manual focus lenses—like FD, FL, and FN mounts—to Micro Four Thirds cameras. I get into how things like the environment can mess with lens quality, and why I started moving toward Nikon mount and native MFT lenses instead—they just work better and are more reliable.
Introduction & Audio Test (00:00:00)
Speaker introduces the episode, mentions focus on Canon manual focus lenses, and discusses testing a new wireless microphone kit.
Decision to Stop Collecting Canon Lenses (00:01:16)
Speaker announces decision to stop collecting/adapting Canon lenses to Micro Four Thirds, including both autofocus and manual focus mounts.
Problems with Canon EF Mount Adapters (00:02:26)
Explains issues with Canon EF mount adapters, specifically the Viltrox EF-M2 MkII Speedbooster, and how it damaged a Panasonic GX85 camera.
Camera Malfunction and Troubleshooting (00:03:39)
Describes the camera glitching, freezing, and the troubleshooting steps taken, including removing the battery and lens.
Realization of Adapter-Related Damage (00:05:56)
Details the process of realizing the adapter caused permanent camera damage, and the impact on available camera bodies.
Further Camera Issues and Speedbooster Concerns (00:07:27)
Discusses additional camera malfunctions, including with native and manual lenses, and concludes the adapter electronics were at fault.
Are Viltrox Speed Boosters Good? (Not With IBIS!)
samedi 17 juin 2023 • Durée 21:44
So, a Viltrox speed booster killed another one of my cameras (my Panasonic G85). Previously, I published a YouTube video about how the “Canon-mount” version (the EF-M2ii) killed my Panasonic GX85 and how I switched to using the all-manual, Nikon-mount version (the NF-43x) but the bad news is the “Nikon" version killed my G85 (scratched the sensor).
So, in this episode, we dive into our experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras (and especially the ones with IBIS). We discuss the pros and cons of brands like Viltrox and Metabones, sharing personal anecdotes about how two of our cameras were damaged with these accessories. We highlight the importance of testing compatibility with different cameras and lenses, and the impact of stabilized sensors (pun intended, sort of). We talk about our goal to find affordable camera solutions to build a reliable two-camera setup for our work in video production and photography, emphasizing the need for accurate testing to avoid problems.
Introduction to Speed Boosters (00:00:00)
Discusses the speaker's experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras.
Third Brand Introduction: Pixco (00:01:21)
Introduces Pixco as a lesser-known brand of focal reducers and their compatibility issues.
Testing Compatibility (00:02:28)
Highlights the importance of testing lens compatibility with adapters to avoid issues.
Focal Reducer Market Overview (00:03:32)
Discusses the price differences and recommendations for various focal reducers.
Camera Damage Anecdote (00:04:33)
Shares a personal story about damaging a camera while using a speed booster.
I Shoot SOOC (& Then Add LUTs)
vendredi 9 juin 2023 • Durée 19:54
In this episode, we dive into the importance of custom camera settings over LUTs in video production. We explain our approach of using lens sensor-specific settings to achieve top-notch image quality straight out of the camera, minimizing the need for extensive color grading. We clarify that our LUTs are for minor tweaks, not the primary tool for achieving a desired look. We also discuss the challenges of color grading, especially with 8-bit files, and the benefits of optimized settings for live streaming. Overall, the episode educates listeners on the value of tailored camera settings for high-quality video output.
Why My LUTs Don't Do Much (00:00:00)
The speaker explains the limited importance of LUTs compared to custom camera settings.
Lens Sensor Specific Settings (00:01:12)
Discussion on using lens sensor-specific settings for optimal image quality.
In-Camera Settings vs. Real-Time LUTs (00:02:37)
The advantages of in-camera settings over real-time LUTs are highlighted.
Custom Settings for Each Lens (00:03:52)
Emphasis on the need for tailored settings for each lens to achieve better results.
Testing Lenses and Settings (00:06:04)
The speaker shares experiences with specific lenses and their performance with default settings.
Minor Adjustments with LUTs (00:08:17)
LUTs are used for minor tweaks rather than significant changes to the image.
Color Grading Ease (00:09:38)
Will Adobe Podcast Kill EQ?
lundi 13 mars 2023 • Durée 29:45
AI for AUDIO is here, and so far I don't like it. If you've ever taken pictures with a "smart" phone that uses AI to (automatically) processes the image, and you don't have any control over how much SHARPNESS, CONTRAST, COLOR it adds, then you can start to imagine how bad AI for AUDIO can be.
SETTINGS: This podcast was recorded using a Rode VideoMicro + Comica Dual Lav going into a Zoom F2-BT, at the "CLOSE" proximity.
The way I'm using this mic is a bit different than it was designed. I'm plugging it into the Comica CVM-D03 Dual Lavalier booster pack (which was designed to provide plug-in power for 2 Comica lavalier mics) and it actually works to power AND boost the Rode VideoMicro, which improves the audio quality a lot compared to just plugging this mic into the Zoom F2. I did try that as well, and while it does sort of work (because you can raise the level of the 32-bit float file in post-production) it sounds way, way better when using the Comica CVM-D03 as an AUX. amplifier.
MORE CUSTOM SETTINGS: www.silverlightphotoco.com/audio
Comica CVM-VM20 & Zoom F2 “CLOSE”
mercredi 1 février 2023 • Durée 14:21
It is really interesting how this mic works with the Zoom F2 32-bit float recorder, at this "CLOSE" proximity: It doesn't need much MIC. GAIN (a setting of "1") and what's amazing about this 32-bit float file (from the Zoom F2) is that it actually comes out pretty clean after boosting the level in post-production. I like doing this, because it means you're using very little of the mic's pre-amp (which tends to "color" the signal). This is very different from how you would have to work if using a non-32-bit float recorder.
MORE CUSTOM SETTINGS: www.silverlightphotoco.com/audio
Evolution of Camera Prices and Market (00:08:38)
Discusses the falling prices of cameras like the GH5 and G85, and the impact of new models.
GH5 Price Drops and Market Trends (00:11:07)
Explains how the release of newer models like the GX7 affected GH5 prices and market behavior.
Native vs. Adapted Lenses (00:13:25)
Introduces the topic of native mount versus adapted lenses, and mentions upcoming detailed podcast.
Hidden Gem Lenses and Adapting Trends (00:14:28)
Discusses "sleeper" lenses, the decline in adapting lenses, and the shift toward native mount lenses.
Lens Reviews and Still Photography Bias (00:17:00)
Critiques still photographers' emphasis on sharpness and contrast in lens reviews for adapted lenses.
Lens-Sensor Relationship and Sharpness (00:18:20)
Explores how sensor features like optical low pass filters affect lens sharpness and image quality.
Challenges with Sharp Lenses on Modern Sensors (00:20:44)
Describes issues with overly sharp lenses on sensors without low pass filters, and using diffusion filters.
Finding the Right Lens-Sensor Match (00:21:50)
Emphasizes the importance of matching lens sharpness to sensor characteristics for optimal results.
Example: Sigma 18-35mm on G7 (00:23:06)
Gives an example of a sharp lens working well with a sensor that has an optical low pass filter.
Valuable but Undervalued Lenses (00:24:14)
Highlights practical, affordable lenses that are overlooked due to negative reviews about sharpness.
Tamron 70-300mm: A Budget Gem (00:25:32)
Recommends the Tamron 70-300mm lens as a valuable, affordable telephoto option for Micro 4/3.
Film vs. Digital Experience with Lenses (00:26:48)
Shares past experiences with the same lens on film cameras and the variables affecting image quality.
Market Perception vs. Practical Value (00:29:06)
Discusses how market undervalues certain lenses that are actually very useful for video work.
Testing and Recommending Budget Lenses (00:31:22)
Mentions the process of testing and recommending budget lenses on the speaker's website.
Best Era for Budget Lenses (00:33:42)
Suggests the early autofocus era (late 80s to mid-90s) as the sweet spot for finding good budget lenses.
Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:34:56)
Wraps up with encouragement, mentions upcoming detailed podcast, and directs listeners to the website.
General Brand List Recap (00:17:02)
Summarizes the main brands tested and transitions to detailed recommendations.
Canon Mount: Why Not (00:17:02)
Briefly explains reasons for no longer adapting Canon FD/EF mounts and refers to previous episodes for details.
Nikon Mount: Top Recommendation (00:18:19)
Recommends Nikon F-mount for adapting, discusses clickable aperture, and notes focus direction difference.
Nikon F-Mount: Best Vintage Lenses (00:19:31)
Highlights first-gen Nikon AF lenses as best value, especially the 50mm f/1.8, and mentions adaptability.
Third-Party Lenses in Nikon Mount (00:21:55)
Recommends buying Sigma, Tokina, Tamron, ProMaster, and Quantaray in Nikon F-mount.
Other Good Mounts (00:22:57)
Mentions Pentax, Olympus OM, and Minolta MD/AF as other good options, especially for 50mm primes.
Canon Mounts: Detailed Cons (00:25:18)
Further details on why Canon FD/EF/FL are not recommended for adapting.
Panasonic Native Lenses (00:27:36)
Panasonic native Micro Four Thirds lenses vs. adapted lenses.
Sigma Lenses (00:28:49)
Explains Sigma’s history, importance of lens generations, and sensor compatibility.
Sigma 18-35mm & Speed Boosters (00:29:54)
Discusses popularity of Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8, speed booster risks, and lens-sensor-specific performance.
Sensor Filters & Lens Sharpness (00:32:14)
Explains how optical low pass filters affect lens sharpness and why some lenses work better on certain sensors.
Sigma Build Quality (00:34:25)
Describes differences between Sigma generations, with newer models being smoother and older ones sometimes problematic.
Tamron Lenses (00:36:38)
Shares mixed experiences with Tamron, especially poor build quality in 1990s models, but notes some good optics.
Tokina Lenses: Best Off-Brand (00:42:23)
Praises Tokina for unique focal lengths, excellent build quality, and recommends AT-X series, especially in Nikon mount.
Final Recommendations (00:48:23)
Covers miscellaneous brands (Pentax, Kiron, Konica, Rokinon, Vivitar, etc.) and reiterates Nikon F as top choice.
Summary (00:50:48)
Main recommendations: Early Nikon AF, Tokina as best off-brand.
Speed Boosters: Pros & Cons (00:51:55)
Explains benefits and risks of speed boosters, especially with IBIS sensors.
Modern Vintage-Style Lenses (00:53:18)
Mentions new manual lenses in vintage style and hints at future podcast topics.
Outro & Website Resources (00:54:22)
Wraps up, directs listeners to the website for detailed lists and more info.
Viltrox and Micro Four Thirds Alliance (00:08:38)
Mentions Viltrox not being part of the Micro Four Thirds Alliance at the time, leading to compatibility and reliability concerns.
Switch to Nikon Mount and More Camera Damage (00:09:40)
Describes switching to Nikon mount adapters (without electronics), but then damaging another camera due to a physical accident.
Conclusion: No Speedboosters on IBIS Cameras (00:10:55)
Concludes not to use speedboosters on cameras with in-body stabilization (IBIS), and reiterates issues with Canon EF adapters.
Canon Autofocus vs. Manual Focus Lenses (00:11:58)
Explains why Canon autofocus on Micro Four Thirds is not worthwhile, and transitions to discussing Canon manual focus lenses.
Fungus Issues in Canon Manual Focus Lenses (00:13:21)
Shares experience with high rates of fungus in Canon FD/FL lenses, and the risks of storing and using fungus-affected lenses.
Fungus Detection and Storage Conditions (00:14:29)
Explains how to detect fungus by smell, the science of fungus spores, and the impact of moist, dark storage environments.
Why Canon Lenses Are More Prone to Fungus (00:16:43)
Theorizes that Canon manual lenses are more likely to have fungus due to being left unused in storage after Canon switched mounts.
Risks of Spreading Fungus to Other Gear (00:19:07)
Warns that using fungus-affected lenses can contaminate other lenses and gear, sharing recent personal examples.
Comparing Canon FD to Other Vintage Lenses (00:20:16)
Compares Canon FD lenses to vintage Nikon, Minolta, and Olympus lenses, finding Canon less impressive in quality and value.
Final Thoughts: Moving Away from Canon Mount (00:23:00)
Summarizes reasons for leaving Canon mount behind, mentions Blackmagic users, and notes declining practicality for Micro Four Thirds.
Recommendations: Nikon and Native MFT Lenses (00:24:08)
Recommends collecting Nikon F mount and native Micro Four Thirds lenses, especially those with manual aperture control.
Collecting Native Micro Four Thirds Lenses (00:25:25)
Mentions shift to collecting native MFT lenses, inspired by YouTuber Nigel Barros, and discusses experiences with new and vintage glass.
Testing Panasonic GX5 and Closing Remarks (00:26:40)
Mentions starting to test the Panasonic GX5 and invites listeners to check the website for future lens tests, confirming no more Canon mount reviews.
Issues with Electronic Controls (00:05:29)
Describes problems with the camera's shutter speed control after using certain adapters.
Nikon Mount Experience (00:06:39)
Relates the experience of using a Nikon mount speed booster and subsequent camera damage.
Sensor Movement Explanation (00:07:40)
Explains how stabilized sensors can lead to issues with focal reducers.
Metabones Compatibility Chart (00:08:48)
Discusses Metabones' approach to compatibility with different camera bodies.
Canon Mount Problems (00:09:58)
Details issues faced with a Canon mount speed booster and its impact on camera performance.
Glitches and Corrupt Files (00:12:13)
Describes file corruption and glitches experienced with the camera after using the speed booster.
Recommendation Changes (00:14:24)
Announces the withdrawal of recommendations for specific speed boosters due to reliability concerns.
Current Camera Status (00:15:37)
Updates on the speaker's current camera situation after recent damages.
Testing New Lenses (00:17:47)
Plans to test new lenses in light of current equipment limitations.
Budget Camera Strategy (00:19:05)
Discusses the strategy of maintaining a two-camera setup under a budget of $600 per camera.
Future Camera Aspirations (00:20:10)
Explores potential upgrades to newer camera models while keeping costs low.
The speaker discusses how custom settings simplify the color grading process.
Noise Reduction and Sharpness (00:10:51)
Insights into the relationship between noise reduction and sharpness adjustments in-camera.
Addressing Common Misconceptions (00:13:01)
The speaker counters common advice against using in-camera noise reduction and sharpness.
Website as a Resource (00:14:49)
The speaker describes their website as a database for custom camera settings.
Importance of Custom Camera Settings (00:16:52)
The speaker emphasizes the significance of custom settings for achieving a realistic look.
Future Topics on Shooting Flat (00:17:54)
The speaker hints at a future episode discussing reasons for not shooting flat or in log.
Benefits of In-Camera Settings for Live Streaming (00:18:52)
In-camera settings are beneficial for live streaming, providing a realistic appearance.
