Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Fujifilm X-Pro3 Dura Black vs X-Pro2 Graphite

Yet another X-Pro3 video (I'm still not done), this time comparing the new Dura Black finish with the previous X-Pro2's limited edition Graphite. What I liked about the Graphite edition X-Pro2 was the matching finish lens, the XF23mm F/2 R WR. I wonder if Fujifilm will make a limited edition titanium or at least a Dura Black and Dura Silver finish XF35mm f/1.4. I hope so.

Monday, December 9, 2019

Wireless Video Monitoring via iPad: The Hollyland Tech Mars 400S

It's time for a video centric gear review. I'm testing the new Hollyland Tech Mars 400S wireless transmission system. It's something that most Youtubers wouldn't need, but when you have it, you realize how powerful a device this can be, especially if you are working on a larger project. Wireless transmission systems are very common in the video world, but what makes the Mars 400S unit unique is that it can also send wireless signals to up to 4 iOS or Android devices via their mobile app. I tested it by connecting 2 iPads and 1 iPhone, and it worked flawlessly. Not only are you transmitting video but also audio, and you can record on your device as well at 1080P. Please watch the video for more details


Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Fujifilm X-Pro3 Launch with Beers & Cameras

Hello everyone, I'm finally back from Toronto and Montreal and working hard to create some video content for you all. If you've been following me on Instagram, you've already seen my latest travel pictures, but this video will give you some behind the scenes video content.

You may notice some improved music on this video.Thanks to Epidemic Sound for inviting me to be part of their ambassador program. I'm excited to use their music for all my latest videos. Use the link below to give their services a 30 day free trial. Unlimited downloads of royalty free music for Youtube, Instagram, Twitter, Twitch, podcasts while still monetizing your accounts: 

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE 30 DAY TRIAL :-)


Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Bag Review: Chrome Niko Camera Sling 2.0

I didn't think I would enjoy reviewing such a small camera bag, but I actually like it a lot. As many of you know, for my smaller bags, I tend to carry non-camera bags as my daily bag. I find camera bags overly padded and protected, which takes up weight and space. Check out my video review for my full thoughts on this new compact camera sling from Chrome Industries.

Friday, November 1, 2019

Can You Review a Digital Film Simulation? I did...


On my latest article for FujiLove Magazine, I decided to review the new film simulation Classic Neg that's available on the new Fujifilm X-Pro3. It may seem unusual to review a virtual film, but that's the reality of digital photography. Even though it's digital, we still yearn for unique profiles for our images, just like the film days. Imagine if the output of all digital files looked exactly the same? It's like if everyone just shot with with same film during the analogue era of photography. How boring would that be? So check out my latest review here at FujiLove Magazine.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

First Impressions: The New Titanium Fujifilm X-Pro3



After almost 4 years, the new Fujifilm X-Pro3 has finally arrived. No it doesn't have a different processor or sensor from the X-T3, but the firmware is tweaked. No it doesn't have IBIS, but it does have a very unique and functional articulating LCD screen. No there isn't a brand new eye cup piece, but it has been re-designed and looks stronger than the previous version. The new X-Pro3 does have something that no other X Series or GFX Series camera has, which is titanium. Why use titanium over other metals like magnesium alloy? First of all, titanium is stronger yet lighter than stainless steel, and has really strong anti-corrosion properties. Second, it looks sexy on a camera. Some of the coolest (yet functional) film cameras of all time were made from titanium (Nikon F3T, Nikon 35ti, Minolta TC-1, Contax T, Contax G, etc.). I won't go into detail of my shooting experience since I've shot a YouTube video explaining how I like the overall function and feel of the camera. I can say that Fujifilm has created another camera that other photographers who already shoot with other manufacturers will lust over. As soon as you see the X-Pro3, you immediately want to pick it up and start shooting with it. Fujifilm understands the value of style, form and colour choice when it comes to their cameras. It's not just a functional tool, but it becomes part of your identity, much like an EDC item (watch, wallet, pocket knife, etc.). Check out the links below to my videos as well as my article on FujiLove Magazine. Thanks for visiting and see you around. Happy shooting!!

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

First Impressions: XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR for Video

In my latest YouTube video I'm testing the new Fujifilm XF16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR as a video lens. For this test I had to call my videographer Chris G aka ChrisMeetsChris to help me shoot it. Because this is a pre-production unit, none of our findings are final. Please wait until I get a hold of a full production unit for my final thoughts on this lens for both stills and video. Thanks for watching and happy shooting!

BHT


Sunday, September 15, 2019

First Look: Fujifilm XF16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR














Hello everyone, in my latest video I take a first look at the brand new mid range zoom lens from Fujifilm, the XF 16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR. If you currently own the X-T3 and lamented the choices of zoom lenses with OIS and WR, here's a decent lens when you need stabilization and weather-sealing. This is also a great all round travel lens with a great 24-120mm equiv. zoom range and a constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. Wait for my shooting review test next. Thanks for watching and happy shooting!!

BHT


Monday, August 26, 2019

First Impressions: Fujifilm GFX 100

I had the opportunity to borrow and test the new Fujifilm GFX 100 over the weekend. It felt a lot like shooting with the GFX 50S, except it was bigger, heavier, but also quicker. 100MP images are hard to wrap my head around still. At 100% crop, the image is still good enough to share to Instagram. The uncompressed RAW files are 200MB plus in size, so remember to upgrade your memory cards. I say 64GB x 2 for minimum, but I recommend 128GB x 2 for this monster.

I will do an unboxing and full review once the camera comes out, but until then, enjoy this video. Also check out my article on FujiLove:

https://fujilove.com/why-should-we-care-about-the-gfx-100/

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Hong Kong Vlog 2019

Hello everyone, better late than never. Although I was in Hong Kong back in April, it's taken me until now to roll out a full video from this trip. Sorry for the delay. I decided to take along with me Chris Gionnakos aka @chrismeetschris as my videographer and editor, and his dad also came along. Who is his dad? You'll have to watch this video to find out.

The main reason for this trip? Shoot neon lights with CineStill 800T, as well as shoot a video with MiNT Camera. I also had a chance to hang out with Vishal from Camera Film Photo, Mr. David Chan, and Jeffo Wong. Thanks to everyone for making this trip memorable and productive. Now it's time to start pumping out the videos. Thanks for your patience. Don't forget to follow these peeps on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chrismeetschris
https://www.instagram.com/mintcamera
https://www.instagram.com/camerafilmphoto
https://www.instagram.com/cinestillfilm


Saturday, August 10, 2019

Shooting Review: Ricoh GR III

The new Ricoh GR III. It took 6 long years before Ricoh finally came out with an all new design for the previously prolific GR series. It averaged a new version every two years since the film days, and then 4 years of silence. I was worried the GR III wasn't coming. It's finally here and I'm pretty happy. This is a long review, but I had a lot to say. Thanks for watching and happy shooting

BHT

Saturday, June 22, 2019

Ricoh GR III: 1st Impressions and Comparisons

I finally got a copy of the new Ricoh GR III from Ricoh Imaging North America. It took a while to get one in my hands, but it was worth the wait. I think from a spec perspective it looks great, but what are my first impressions? This video is a long one, so it's not for the faint of heart. There's lots of quick reviews with specs all over the internet, so if that's what you're looking for, you're not going to find it here. Sorry about that. I have 2 weeks to shoot with this camera, then I'll do an actual shooting review with images. Until then, I'll post one image I took. I'm very impressed. the sharpness of the lens, IBIS, and the processing are all fantastic. I'm excited. Stay tuned for more soon.

BHT

Monday, June 17, 2019

Review: Final Thoughts on Fujifilm X-T30


Check out my final thoughts on the mighty little Fujifilm X-T30. For it's size and price, the X-T30 delivers, but is it for you? Here are my thoughts.


Friday, June 7, 2019

What's In My Bag: Chrome Industries MXD Segment

This is my latest What's In My Bag series using the Chrome Industries MXD Segment sling bag. This cool bag was designed by Chrome's Japanese design team, and when it was first released, it sold out immediately. I didn't even have time to review it. I had to wait a few months before I could get a copy to review, so thanks to Chrome for shipping it out to me. I've had it for a few months, and I really like it. If you're not use to sling bags, it might be a weird transition from a traditional shoulder bag or backpack, but there's lots of advantages using a sling. Please enjoy the video and look for more bag reviews in the future.

BHT


Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Video Review: Leica M10-P Edition


Check out my latest review of the Leica M10-P. The biggest difference functionally between this mid-cycle body and the original M10 is the shutter dampening system and the touch screen. It's not worth the upgrade unless these two features are really important to you. It does point to the future of the M system though, and I think it's a great direction. Hopefully Leica will improve connectivity (wifi, Bluetooth) and perhaps a hybrid viewfinder like Fujifilm's X-Pro/X100 series. Even an optional external viewfinder would be welcome, although not ideal. Does anyone want video to return to the M body? I know most don't, but I wouldn't mind. I would love to try some crazy bokeh 50mm Noctilux video pull focus shots, although you can always adapt it to the Leica SL. Enjoy the video and the embedded pictures.






Thursday, May 9, 2019

Review: XF16mm f/2.8 R WR in Hong Kong

When I found out I had another work project in Hong Kong, I knew I would take 1 zoom as my standard lens (I typically take the XF10-24mm), and another lens to review. The XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR would be a perfect lens to test in Hong Kong, especially in conjunction with the super compact X-T30. Check out my thoughts on this lens.

Sunday, March 31, 2019

Vlogging Test: Fujifilm XF16mm f/2.8 R WR + X-H1 Body

What do you think? XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR with the X-H1 for vlogging? I've always wanted to vlog with a compact wide angle prime lens with the Fujifilm system and this is the closest they've come to make my dream come true. Let's see what happens...


Friday, March 29, 2019

Unboxing a New Fujicron: Fujifilm XF 16mm F/2.8 R WR

Is this a Fujicron? Technically it's not, since it's not f/2.0, but I think in spirit the new XF 16mm f/2.8 R WR can be placed next to the XF 23mm f/2 R WR, XF 35mm f/2 R WR, and the XF 50mm f/2 R WR. Stay tuned for my shooting impressions soon as I take this lens on a bit of a road trip.

BHT

Sunday, March 24, 2019

2019 Film Photography Conference: The Darkroom's Paideia

Welcome to the 2019 Film Photography Paideia. I did my best to vlog it, but I had to end up adding a talking head portion to make sense of it all. Please enjoy!!

BHT

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Vintage Camera Shopping at Champagne Court 2019

Another year and another visit to my favourite vintage camera shopping mall in the world, Champagne Court. I don't know how much longer Mr. David Chan and this shopping centre will stay open, but I think it has a couple more years left. Hopefully Mr. Chan will sell me one of his vintage minty new-in-box cameras so I can do an unboxing for you guys. Until then, enjoy my latest video from my favourite city.

BHT


Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Travel Announcement: 2019 Film Photography Conference

It's time again to hit the road (okay plane) and head south to San Clemente California for the 2019 Film Photography Paideia hosted by Philip and his team at The Darkroom. The last time I was there I got to hang out with my friends from Beers and Cameras and interview Grant Brittain. This time I get to see the same group of photographers, and we've added more. Check out the line-up here on The Darkroom's blog:

https://thedarkroom.com/film-photography-paideia-2019/

Pretty exciting right? If you don't already have tickets, then wait for a overview video. I think The Darkroom might even stream it live via Instagram. Check out my IG stories as well as others that will be attending.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Fujifilm X-T30 Vlogging Test in Chinatown


Here's my vlogging test with the brand new Fujifilm X-T30. I've pretty much tried using every Fujifilm camera for vlogging, even the GFX 50S. Some work out pretty good (X-E3 is great), some not so good (like the GFX 50S). The new X-T30 is the best camera that Fujifilm currently makes for vlogging. Please enjoy the video to see for yourself. Thanks for visiting and happy shooting... and vlogging!


Wednesday, February 13, 2019

The Baby X-T3: The New Fujifilm X-T30

Fujifilm has just announced the new X-T30, following the release of the successful and powerful X-T3. It has the same sensor+processor combination of the X-T3, but the similar body of the previous X-T20. If you were a fan of the X-T10 and X-T20, then you'll love the new X-T30. The biggest change you'll notice is the addition of the joystick but removal of the D-pad. Although Fujifilm insists that using the touch screen will compensate for the loss of the D-Pad, on the new X-T30, it might actually work out. The new LCD is more responsive and quicker. Even the touch+drag AF point selection while using the EVF on the X-T30 is very fast and accurate. Here is a quick list of the key features of the new X-T30:

-26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 Sensor
-100% Phase Detection (2.16M-dot) with 425 AF points
-Back-side illuminated sensor design with base ISO 160 and reduced rolling shutter
-X-Processor 4 with Quad CPU (3 times faster than previous processor)
-Blackout Free 30fps in ES (electronic shutter) with 1.25x crop (20fps in ES without crop, 8fps with mechanical shutter)
-16 film simulations, including Eterna for cinematic look for both stills and video
-Lowlight AF -3.0 EV, 240 simultaneous AF/AE calculations, 300% faster PDAF focusing between near and far subjects
-383g light-weight retro-inspired design with top & bottom plate aluminum. Available in silver, black and ltd edition charcoal silver
-Improved EVF with 100fps refresh and 800 cd/m2 (nits) brightness
-Improved LCD touch screen with increased touch sensitivity and speed, especially in AF drag mode while using EVF
-Real-time Face + Eye Detection, improved algorithm over X-T3
-Addition of joystick lever instead of D-pad with increase usability of LCD screen
-upgraded USB-C connection for downloading, charging, powering (with PD Battery Pack), and use with USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (not included) to use as headphone jack for video
-DCI 4K 30fps (over sampled 6K) 200Mbps with 10 min limit
-H.264 4:2:0 8bit internal or 4:2:2 10bit external
-Full HD 30/60fps with 15 min limit
-48KHz 24bit high bit-depth sound (Internal Pre-amp)
-HD 120fps high speed video (with 1.29x crop) for cinematic BROLL
-Time-coding, Zebra, Silent Movie Mode, F-Log, Tally Light

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

"The Analogue Photography Series: Film is Still Alive" 1 Year Later

It's been 1 year since the release of my mini documentary on Telus StoryHive's Youtube channel and Telus' VOD service. It is part 1 of a 3 part series, for which I only had funding to complete episode 1. I'm still looking for funding to finish the project, so yes I'm trying to keep alive my documentary on keeping film alive. Please enjoy re-watching it and I'll keep everyone posted on how my search for funding is coming along. Thanks for everyone who participated in the project, many of them you'll see again soon on my YouTube channel.

Thanks for visiting and happy shooting

BHT

Monday, January 28, 2019

Leica M10 P Unbox and Shutter Sound Comparison


My latest video is the unboxing of the Leica M10-P. I also do a shutter comparison between it and the last generation Leica M246, as well as film Leica MA and the M7. According to my test, it's definitely the quietest shutter on any M body I've ever shot with, but there is body vibration due to the dampening mechanism. Wait for my first shooting impressions video to find out if it actually affects images at slow shutter speed. For now enjoy this video. Thanks for watching and happy shooting

BHT