Plastic Free July 2020

I shot some new personal work to coincide with this years Plastic Free July. The environment and reducing [plastic] waste is something I care very much about and with recent images of beaches and parks covered in litter from people enjoying the recent good weather, it does appear people either do not care about the environment.

I implore people to to try and reduce plastic consumption this July, and maybe continue it going forward. It’s really important we all make a change before we damage our planet beyond repair.

I look forward to sharing some more work in the near future, hopefully some new charity work.

What is plastic-free July and when is it?

Plastic-free July is a month-long campaign during which millions of people around the world take the challenge to reduce their use of single-use plastics such as plastic bags, takeaway containers and plastic cutlery.

The challenge is taking place till the end of this month, 31st July. 

Hero_Floating_Blue_Bag_V1.jpg

Plastics to try and remove/use less

  • Take away coffee cup

  • Plastic bags

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Soap in single use plastic bottle

  • Food packaging - such fresh fruit and vegetables in plastic bags

  • Shopping at bulk stores

  • Buy Less

  • Recycle & reuse

Top 10 Facts on Plastic Pollution - plasticoceans.uk

These facts are from our 'Science Behind The Film Document' that supports A Plastic Ocean.

  • 350 million tonnes of plastic are being produced each year. This could weigh more than humanity, estimated at 316 million tonnes in 2013.

  • 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year. If waste management practices don't improve, scientists predict this amount could increase tenfold by 2025.

  • Plastics make up to around 75% of marine litter, although this can be up to 100% at some sites.

  • Plastic in the ocean breaks up into smaller fragments called microplastics, which have been identified in commercial fish consumed by humans.

  • Half of all plastics are single-use applications, used just once and then disposed of.

  • We don't know how long it takes for plastic to break down. It's estimated it could take up to thousands of years to degrade.

  • Birds are highly susceptible to plastic ingestion. It is estimated that over 90% of all seabirds have ingested plastic.

  • Birds are highly susceptible to plastic ingestion. It is estimated that over 90% of all seabirds have ingested plastic.

  • The "island of trash" - also known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch has been misreported. A large area of plastic debris does exists here,  but a big soup of microplastics make up to 94%.

  • Plastic acts as a sink for chemicals already in the environment. The material is able to attract these chemicals and transport them long distances.

  • Studies show plastic chemicals can act as endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruption is linked to health effects like cancer, birth defects, and developmental problems in children.

Wireless Monitor Set Ups

I’m happy to announce that I am now offering up to 7 screen set up on set.

  • 4 devices [Phone & Tablet] can be connected at one time. using your personal IOS or Android Device.

  • 2 full monitors [1 wireless, 1 wired]

  • 1 Laptop Monitor [wired]

That’s a total of 7 screens on set!

Monitor_Layuot copy.jpg

Above depicts a typical set up that could be achieved on set.

  • Macbook Pro

  • Wired monitor

  • Wireless Monitor

  • x4 IOS/Android devices mirroring the wired monitor

This kit can also be adapted to location see below,

Monitor_Layuot_2.jpg

Alternative options,

  • Laptop

  • Wireless Monitor

  • x4 IOS/Android devices mirroring the wired monitor

Monitor_Layuot_3.jpg

On location/outside set up. It’s still possible to have this system working on location remotely.

  • Laptop

  • iPad Pro 12.9 wireless

  • x4 IOS/Android devices mirroring Laptop display

iPad_Capture_Mirror.jpg

The iPad Pro 12.9 can be used in the following format.

  • Mirroring Capture One viewer [wIfi or radio options available]

  • It’s own individual screen [wifi or radio options available]

  • Streaming from Capture One, watch images come in, view, rate them. [Wifi needed]

  • If you wish to use an iPad solely for other iPad applications, this is also an option.

The iPad can be used free and or easily mounted onto a stand.

Powering the iPad will be either with a wall AC adapter or HyperJuice USB external battery.

* Wireless Monitor still runs off domestic power [wireless power options coming in the future]

** A free application will be needed to use this function on individual phones/tablets. Information on where to find this app will be give out on set.

Wireless Monitors Information - Coming Soon

I will be updating this page with information on how my wireless monitor package can help your set during current social distancing on set.

Social distancing with wireless monitors

I am happy to be able to offer wireless monitors on set going forward. This is a great bit of kit that will free up long cables trailing across set, and also having the portability on location.

iPad Second Monitor

The 12.9” 2020 iPad can be used in two ways,

  • as a second monitor

  • Capture Pilot for clients to review & rate images.

*Wireless internet is needed for this option.

Wireless 24” & 27” Monitors

Wireless monitors displaying images as they come in. Up to 4 IOS [iPhone/iPads] are able to connect to this system.

Up to 400’ distance from Transmitter [main monitor]

Low Latency

Wireless internet is not needed for this set up.

*Users wishing to use the IOS function to view on their own personal device, must down a free app from the Apple store. Information will be provided on set.

10M Wired option available

If you’d prefer, a 10M wired monitor is also available.

Environmentally Friendly PPE on Set

As PPE is now going to be the norm on set, this means more plastic waste, this is something I want to limited to a minimum to none. So I will be only supplying biodegradable gloves and cleaning wipes. I will not be providing reusable masks & visors. I advise you to bring your own reusable [washable] masks to set.

I would advise washing of hands as realistically as possible/when you feel it’s needed.

Some information on the gloves I will be providing for those who may have an allergic reaction to latex and other materials.

Gloves

100% biodegradable disposable gloves that provide high levels of dexterity, protection and comfort

  • The unique Eco Best Technology® ensures the glove fully biodegrades once disposed of, helping to improve your carbon footprint

  • 4mil thick nitrile feels like a second skin allowing for enhanced accuracy when carrying out tasks

  • Latex and powder free to reduce the chance of allergic reactions

  • Rolled cuff protects your forearm from liquid run down

  • Antistatic properties

  • Chemical resistant to EN374 parts 2 and 3

  • AQL 1.5 medical grade

  • Coating material: Nitrile

  • Grip Design: Textured fingertips

  • Cuff Style: Beaded

  • Colour: Green

  • AQL: 1.5

  • Medical Grade: Yes

  • Food Safe: No

  • Chemical Resistant: Yes

  • Powder-free: Yes

  • Length mm: 240

  • Typical Applications: Automotive, Construction & Utility, Engineering and Manufacturing, Food Manufacturing and Prep, Janitorial, Oil and Gas, Warehousing, Transport and Logistics, Waste Management and Local authority

Cleaning Wipes

With an enhanced resealable lid to lock in moisture, these Dettol biodegradable antibacterial surface cleaning disinfectant wipes are proven to kill 99.9 Percent of bacteria.

They are ideal to disinfect any surface including food preparation areas like chopping boards and baby equipment like high chairs. Complete with enhanced pocket technology to create thicker, moisture-rich wipes, these Dettol biodegradable antibacterial surface cleaning wipes are completely bleach free, odourless and leave no taint.

They are a must-have in any home as they kill Salmonella, Rotavirus, Flu Virus (H1N1), 90 Percent of all allergens and even antibiotic resistant MRSA. In a convenient and easy to use format, they are ideal for fast and hygienic cleaning.

Gloves & Wipe swill have their own waste bin that will be recycled.

Face Mask & Visors

I will be using both face masks and visor [depending on circumstances].

Hand Sanitiser

Hand Sanitiser will be provided.

Remote Viewing On Set - COVID 19

Following my recent post on the Government guidelines & The AOP, I have decided to add a new item to my kit,

iPad Pro 12.9

I will now be offering remote wireless viewing for clients via screen sharing and Capture One. This feature is also great for food stylists too, full colour live view when you’re on set working away as well as seeing each individual images as they are shot.

This can be used up to 30FT, so keeping well outside the 2m distance that’s advised.

capture one.jpg

As mentioned in the previous post,

10M screen [wired, wireless coming soon] for viewing and rating of images is also available and will be the standard for shoots in the studio going forward.

Covid 19 & Social Distancing on Set

The AOP recently released shoot guidelines to continue safely amid this current pandemic.

New additions to kit to help meeting social distance guidelines.

Wireless Monitor - This can be used up to 30FT, Images can be viewed, rated etc… [More Info Soon]

iPad Pro - Wireless viewing of images, live view etc… [Great for food stylists too!] [More Info Soon]

PPE - Gloves & wipes will be provided. I would advise you bring your own washable masks, but I will have disposable masks on standby.

During The Shoot

  • a)  Stagger call times where possible to avoid congestion.

  • (b)  Keep the unit as small as possible and minimise the number of crew/

  • agency/client/talent on set at any one time.

  • (c)  Wash and thoroughly dry hands on arrival and during the day at regular intervals.

  • Alcohol-based (60% minimum) sanitisers should be easily accessible throughout the

  • set/location as well as soap and water provided wherever possible.

  • (d)  Consider a video-conferencing facility relaying video remotely to agency/client.

  • (e)  Consider increasing video monitoring on set to avoid clusters of people.

  • (f)  All crew to adhere to any safety guidelines or notices given on the day.

  • (g)  Consider any space markers where possible.

  • (h)  Walkie-talkies/radios to be correctly sanitised, bagged-up and labelled with crew names

  • before distribution - do not share equipment.

Location/Studio

  • (a)  Initial location research can be done remotely using location libraries.

  • (b)  2m-distancing must be used when visiting locations and meeting property owners/managers.

  • (c)  Note that councils are unlikely to grant any filming/location permits at the moment.

  • (d) Try and ensure common areas and holding areas are outside wherever possible.

  • (e) Prefer/prioritise for one location, without unit moves, per day.

  • (f) Prefer/prioritise for location in a 4G area, where possible, to transmit live video over the internet, if WiFi unavailable.

  • (g) Locations are to be well-ventilated. Consider bringing additional equipment to change (not recycle) the air regularly if this is not the case.

  • (h) Avoid the use of vapours, steam and hazers (including but not limited to dry ice, oil ,mists or glycol) as they are likely to keep airborne infections in the atmosphere longer.

  • (i) Where possible, all locations required to share their own COVID-19 preparedness plans.

  • (j) Locations to be cleaned prior to and after shooting, if possible. Locations may want to take this on themselves and charge an extra fee for this.

  • (k) Avoid distant locations which would require overnight accommodation for those involved. Also avoid locations which will not permit minimum 2m-distancing.

  • (l) All recces to involve minimum crew only (self-driving and maintaining 2m-distancing throughout). Masks and gloves available for all attendees as required c/o production. (m) Location prep: Pre-light/set-build/set-dress etc., to be undertaken separately by one crew/department at a time, where possible.

Fujifilm XPro-3

I was kindly lent a XPro 3 by Fujifilm [through Hire a Camera] for two days during the current lockdown due to Coronavirus, I thought I’d cover a camera system I’ve wanted for sometime. This piece is more about my thoughts on a rather divisive camera opposed to a specs sheet.

The big talking about this is the screen, and that it’s hidden. This is a huge problem for many owners of the XPro 2, as you will see comments on FujiRumours & Youtube going off about this design.

When I first tried the XPro-3 at Fujifilm SQ in Tokyo, I liked the concept of this design and getting my hands on it again and handling it, I really wasn’t sure how I felt about it.

2020_04_18_XPro_3_Shot_01_0104_EDIT copy.jpg

When I did eventually get outside on my daily walk to test the camera. I actually didn’t find the lack [hidden] LCD a problem at all. I kinda enjoyed it. Sitting at my desk the day before, flipping the screen back and forth, seeing how it would be used in an everyday scenario, my thoughts were ‘this is going to be so cumbersome to use’.

But actually using it for an hour, I don’t have any qualms about the hidden screen.

I guess I shoot this system how I’d shoot my X100T, mostly using the EVF for 90% of the operation. When shooting with my X100T I often view images and menu through the EVF as I feel you get a better screen through the EVF in bright sunlight, no glare etc... Even on my GFX, If I wish to show someone a photo, I’d suggest they look through the EVF opposed to the rare LCD.

I like the idea of having a waist level LCD, granted many cameras can do this, but to have a simple one pull down motion. This is great for shooting from the hip and on the sly, which is great for street photography.

I feel like people are missing the point of this camera, it’s niche, yeah I get that. But this camera is seen as a more ‘purer’ form of shooting and enjoying the ‘experience’, opposed to constantly looking at their images after each shot.

The fact you get Youtube reviewers, saying ‘this camera isn’t for VLlogging’, they’re missing the point. The Xpro line as always been seen to cater towards street photography. Not every camera is brought for ‘selfies’ and ‘VLogging’.

Sub Menu & Film Simulations

With the new hidden display, we have have a small sub menu that can display two different looks. A screen that is very similar to those on on the XH-1 & GFX 50S. I find these displays really handy for shooting and having it on the back of the camera is very helpful.

The alternative is to have the film simulations, ISO & white balance shown in a form that is reminiscent of the cardboard tab you’d take from a box of film and slide into the rear of the camera to display what film stock and speed you’re using.

I love this feature, some say it’s a gimmick and maybe it is, but it’s nice to have the option of two different screens. I found myself leaving it on the film stock, it’s cute. I think If i were to be shooting on a job, I’d likely change it to the more informative display. But it’s nice to have a bit of colour on what is a very stealthy [black] camera.

Fujfilm film simulations above, easy to change without having the view via the LCD screen.

Classic Negative is the new Film Simulation released on this camera. It’s also available on the XT3, but only on the RAF file in Capture One, I’m sure a firmware will address this soon.

I really love the look of Classic Negative. I would always use Classic Chrome when I shoot, but Classic Negative will now be the default look for shooting personal/everyday photographs. I always thought that CC [Classic Chrome] gave the most filmic look to the films, desaturated, blue tinge to the image, but this Classic Negative really does look like how I remember Superia Film [What it’s trying to mimic].

Xpro_3_Classic_Negative_Classic_Chrome.jpg

Left if Classic Negative, right is Classic Chrome. Same settings applied just different LCC profile.

I like both looks, but the CN gives more of blue flatter/matte image, you can see the shadows have ben pulled slightly in the shadows.

EVF/OVF

I’m going to mostly talk about the OVF, personally I use this function on the X100T about 5% [or less of the time], maybe very low light with flash, just for fun, that’s it. It’s lovely to look through and is a very cool bit of technology, especially with the lay over of information [like an old rangefinder].

But for me it’s just not very practical for my shooting style, I’m very particular with how accurate things are in frame. I had a lot of issues with my Mamiya 7, especially with portraits. I could never shoot a portrait that I thought was well composed, due to the rangefinder aspect of the camera. The same applies for the OVF on all Fujifilm cameras.

It’s been well documented that the design of the EVF/OVF is one of the more expensive aspect of the camera. Camera markets are falling and cameras are becoming a tough sell to the average consumer. Granted the already niche XPro lines has become even more niche with the implementation of this hidden screen, so you’d think any means of cutting costs would make sense. Part of me feels they should bin off this whole interchangeable EVF/OVF, go down the more XE3/GFXR route, this will bring down costs too.

This camera is fundamentally for the streets, 24-35mm is where this body will thrive, especially when using the OVF. There are plenty of videos featuring reviewers using much longer focal lengths and then slagging it off. I get their concern, but the whole idea behind this camera is not for shooting 70-200mm lenses, especially with the OVF.

If you do wish to shoot longer focal lengths, EVF is the way forward [full stop].

XPro 3 vs Leica M10D

The XPro line as always been compared to Leica. If you can’t afford a Lecia, by a Fujifilm XPRO/X100.

In 2018 Leica released a 24MP Full Frame Rangefinder camera with no EVF or a screen, I don’t remember users going as mental as they are over the XPro 3… Oh, did I mention it’s £6000…

That’s all I’m going to say on that.

Analogue Photography?

As I said in my first hands on with this camera last year,

…everyone seems to love film, Fujifilm give you a more analogue way of shooting, and people lose their heads over it.

I stand by this comment. Film has had a resurgence in recent years, and even with its ever increasing price, people still seem to shoot it.

That feeling of taking shots and not ‘chimping’, going home and loading into Capture One, seeing what you got. I did this a lot when shooting football [Granted I shot that on the XT3, but that method of shooting applies directly to the XPro3] , it’s so fast paced I have to rely on my judgement, and when I did import the images, that feeling of analogue nostalgia kicked it.

And that feeling of accomplishment and joy of imagery is a feeling that’s very enjoyable, ok that sounds odd, it’s hard to word, but those who have shot film will understand this.

Video

This isn’t a video camera, this isn’t a VLog camera for Youtube, so things like a HDMI port has been removed, as is the headphone jack, but a USB C adapter can be used.

Saying that I like the quality of the video out of this camera, it’s gorgeous. The XT-3 is still a better camera for video, but I’d never shoot paid video work on the XPro-3, no one would, it’s just not functional. If I wanted to capture a bit of quick video, this camera would be more than capable, so it’s a nice feature to have, in what is a camera focused on stills.

DCI 17:9 30p 100Mps Film Simulation Standard [Handheld]

Battery

Fujifilm recently released a larger battery in the XT4, and I imagine this will be implemented in every future iteration of Fujifilm camera, but maybe not. As it’s physically a larger battery, the form factory of future [compact] cameras would change.

They decided to go from the existing battery that people have been urging them to update for sometime. I think the battery life of this camera is fine, between 370-440 shots. If you use it hows it’s intended to be used, not using the LCD, You should be fine shooting on one battery.

These batteries are so small & cheap, and if you’ve invested in Fujifilm cameras prior to this release, you’ll have loads lying around.

The camera is also able to charge via USB C, which is handy, as you can charge off of a power bank on the go.

Tethering

You can tether to Capture One with this camera and this is where I feel the hidden screen works. If you’re shooting to Capture One, you’d never look at the back of your camera, all camera setting would be set by yourself or your digi.

I could imagine shooting this system on a lifestyle shoot or studio setting. Even un-tethered, you’re not going to be checking the back of your screen every 3 frames to see if you’ve got the shot.

Overall

I already started writing my conclusion on this camera before I got out there and shoot on it. I’ll go as far to say I felt that ‘it’s form over function’. But after using it, I don’t feel that statement holds true anymore. I really feel people need to try this camera for a weekend, then you know if it’s for you or not.

It’s very easy to be off put by the idea of a hidden screen and in some applications I can see it could be cumbersome to use. But you really just have to borrow it for a few days and use it, I think people would change their mind on the whole hidden LCD .

Pros

  • USB C Charging

  • Colour Neg Simulation

  • Decent 4k Video

  • Rare view finder with film simulation, I love it!

  • Titanium Finish

  • 11 FPS is great in such a system

Cons

  • The lack of rear facing screen, this is a huge deal breaker for many.

  • OVF feels unusable with longer focal length lenses.

  • ISO dial, clunky

It’s a really beautiful camera and I’ve longed for an XPro-2, and wish I got one at the time, but will I buy an XPro-3?

My initial thoughts were a flat out ‘No!'.

But after using it for the weekend I’m more sold on it. If I could only have one X series camera [with interchangeable lens], it would be the XPro-3, as the handling of the camera suits my style and I find it much more enjoyable to shoot than my XT-3, even though the XT-3 is a better camera in terms of features.

My X100T is showing its age [both technology and physically] and with the recent release of the X100V, I feel that the X100 is a better system for me. If I were to by an XPro-3 I can’t imagine I’d ever take off the 23mm lens, so it makes more sense to follow up with an X100V once the world is back to normal.

Thanks for reading, bit of a mishmash of things. Thanks to Fujifilm UK & Hire a Camera. Be safe out there.

Fujifilm GFX, My thoughts two years in.

Since we are currently in 'LOCKDOWN’ due to a global pandemic, I thought I’d take sometime to follow up on a few blog posts I’ve had drafted.

I’ve been shooting with my GFX for over two years now and I thought it would be good to have a sort of ‘mid lifecycle review' of the system and my experiences with it.

I’ve got a fair lot of use out of this camera in two years, its my main camera for both personal work & commissions, so I’ve come to learn the system [and other Fujifilm cameras] inside out. I’ve become some what of an advocate [fanboy] for the Fujifilm brand & the GFX.

Somehow I’ve got several people to pick up the GFX & subsequent cameras, like the x100 line of cameras.

I recently exchanged my GFX 50s for a 50R, so I will cover both of these cameras and where I feel the system needs to go.

Things I like about the 50’s/50R [both cameras are very different so will separate these points]

50s Pros

  • Image quality [50R is the same]

  • Large grip

  • Side loading battery

  • Being able to plug into the mains

  • Dials, ISO & shutter, very welcome

  • 3 way tilt screen

  • Focus stacking [Same in the R]

50s Cons/Dislikes

  • Large ugly protruding back of the camera

  • 1/125 max shutter, though this can be resolved with HSS

  • Camera strap holder, not a great system and have since been removed on future GFX systems

  • Initially the system wasn’t supported by Capture One, this was a huge issue

  • Ropey video

I’ve always wanted a digital Mamiya 7 and upon the release of the 50R, I wish sure to switch systems eventually. Why? I just suits my shooting style, though since swapping from the S to R, there are some downsides.

50R Pros

  • Feels like a Mamiya 7/big rangefinder

  • Light and not bulky

  • USB C connection

  • Panoramic/x-pan crop [Same in the S]

  • Very enjoyable camera to use, it make me enjoy shooting more

50R Cons/Dislikes

  • No USB charging

  • USB C/ports on the bottom of the camera, mental!

  • Bottom loading battery

  • No ISO dial, though used a function button to change this

  • Ropey Video

  • Lack of 3 way tilt, didn’t realise how much I used this

As you can see, a lot of negatives with the R, but for me this camera is a much more simplistic camera. I would like to have kept both systems, but with a rumour of a successor to the 50s, I felt like it was time to exchange for the R.

So the future of the GFX system,

I feel there is a market for this camera, even with full frame cameras cramming more and more megapixels into their sensors. It appears Fujifilm are trying to cut the cost of medium format, just look at the 50R and the endless deals they seem able to offer several times a year.

Medium format today is cheap, compared to even 5 years ago. The initial launch price of the 50s is a fraction of the cost of a Phase One system, and with the 50R constantly being reduced I see little reason to buy a phase unless you really have clients that are willing to pay for it.

Even APSC, which dominates the camera market [which I only recently learnt], is more than enough for most applications. I do find it hard to go back to APSC when shooting the GFX as the quality is far greater. 90% of images are viewed at on laptops and phones, so APSC is really enough.

Saying that, I’m a bit of a quality geek, so would always opt for the GFX where I can. Though shooting things like football, I’ll always go for the XT3 as medium format isn’t built for such things, and that’s fine.

Things I’d like/that are needed from this system,

  • A tilt shift lens or 2, or an adapter at least.

  • More megapixels, a 50s refresh to say, 70-80MP would be welcome, though does this start to step on the toes of the 102MP?

  • 4k video is standard in any GFX camera going forward.

I’m very glad I invested in the GF system, as I’ve always wanted a medium format, nearly taking the plunge with Phase/Leaf 5 years ago. Thankfully I brought a bike and decided to cycle across Japan instead, best decision I ever made.

I look forward to seeing what interesting developments happen with this system and other X series cameras once the world regains some normality.

Stay safe out there.