Do better please, YouTube..... 

And here I was hoping you could help me avoid 5 mistakes by telling me the 10 tips to the 7 steps that would lead me to the 3 secrets that would take my photography 'to the next level'. 😊

I jumped the gun an commented before the end. That feeling of missing images is a very real thing. For me, I have no other income from photography anymore. I had to give up full time photography when digital came of age. The days of shooting stock and writing for magazines has dried up so I’m stuck with this. Today RU-vid funds the habit of taking photographs and pays for a bit of fuel and that’s it. I constantly say it frequently comes at a cost of not being at your best when the chips are down. Headless chicken is very true indeed.

I totally agree with you in this video and what really worries me is the true art of photography being lost because of too much post processing instead of getting it right in camera😢

Stuart - that was a wonderful rant. I would rather listen and watch you and your channel. I do not need to be bombarded by photostacking - most new high-end cameras are good at that. I want to watch professional photographers taking picture in locations, I vividly remember the haw frost video. I dont need to be sold more gear. My goal is to be the best landscape photographer I can be without tricks and gimmicks. I don't earn much currently. It means I have to improve through camera craft. Watching you and certain other photographers give me that. By watching and listening I believe if I get the chance to photograph the lakes I will do them justice. I for one will be sad if you choose to stop.

A thoughtful video! Which I appreciated. Just a note of encouragement for you. You and your channel. Are doing a damn fine job.

Hi Stuart. I completely agree with your sentiments about the state of youtube photography. I totally understand your frustrations with youtube and your thinking that youtube is perhaps no longer worth the effort. However your videos are of the highest quality and are really enjoyable, only surpassed by the standard of your photography. Maybe one solution could be to post a lot less for the time being, which may give you more time back and waiting to see what happens. Anyway hope it all works out for the best.

"You just need to get out there and do it." Yep, that's exactly what i was thinking as I started this video- it takes time and reps to train your eye. If i can't put together a decent composition, Lightroom ain't helping me 😅

I agree with you Stuart, RU-vid seems to be driving more and more creators down the quick fix, click bait, video title route. Anyone with any experience knows that there is no such think as a magic bullet or secret to instant success (just hard work, getting out there and lot of trial and error). Please keep doing the ‘in the field’ videos - the very best content is when the viewer feels they are out on a shoot with one of their friends (who they respect and find entertaining) - and you definitely tick those boxes.

100% we’ll said. My channel has done ok but I got in early and I also got a good shout out from Mr Heaton, without which my channel would be half of what it is today. I’ve always preferred honest in the field videos with honest thumbnails over clickbait as it’s just so insincere. I have done one of these top tips videos however and I’ll not lie, it’s my best viewed film. The film does offer a lot of value though and it’s been well received in the comments, but I felt I was following the crowd when I created the thumbnail for it. The vast majority of these videos we see are below par and many of the creators producing them rarely show an image being made in the field. To see them catapulted to greatness through the algorithm has been frustrating to say the least. I try to just keep myself to myself these days and until finding this channel, I wasn’t watching photography on YT anymore. I really hope some of them see this film, or at least hear about it.

Hi Stuart, I was drawn to your photography by seeing wonderful prints at not stupid prices in the window of your gallery in Keswick (unfortunately on a day it was closed). I don't spend loads of time watching RU-vid videos, and quickly rule out any content from people who I don't think know what they are talking about (there are plenty of them). Conversely, I do enjoy content from those who clearly DO know what they are talking about (as you do). I have no doubt other subscribers have chosen to view your videos for the same reasons. I have watched and enjoyed a number of your videos, but if you feel making them is detracting from your photography, then maybe the route forward is to continue making them, but just do so less often.

Keep ploughing your own furrow, Stuart, it has served you well so far. I agree with everything you say here. There is lots more I could add!

Very interesting and honest perspective

Hi Stuart, I feels to me that after we were all civil to each other and now we are back to a normal and it seems people have become more aggressive to each other. You are quite right about RU-vid algorithms causing a lot of dross on the internet. I detest social media and what it has done to society. Do not take any notice about what the guy said about you being negative, very easy to comment on the internet, if it was face to face it would be a different matter. You have got the content spot on, don't change a thing. I bet he was a Southerner as I get called a miserable git down here in the South, they just cannot understand the directness on the Northern people, their loss as we are a lot more genuine than the lot down here. That will put the cat among the pigeons! After reading your last newsletter, I did not realise what personal difficulties you have to deal with, yet you run a business, produce videos and deal with negative comments from people who do not know you. Difficult to do I know, but they're not even worth commenting on, I bet if roles were reversed they would not like it. Keep doing what you are doing, don't change a thing and I am glad you have the integrity not to fall into the dross producing content of 90% of youtube videos. Can't wait for the book to come out, I was born in Bolton and moved down South many years ago, very strange place down here!! But trying to educate them into the Northern welcoming way! Don't take any notice of t'thidiods. Regards Jonathan

I really like the quality and content of your videos Stuart. I understand the smaller channels don't get the coverage they deserve but I for one do search out these in the hope of finding a little gem such as your channel, which I only found a couple of months ago even though you have been going for several years. I will be searching out your gallery and workshops in the future when time allows which is thanks to your channel being there..keep up the good work please!

Keep posting Stuart - unfortunately 30 second tik tok hacks seem to be the way of the world these days and you tube hasn't helped itself with constant ads (to the point eventually started paying for premium) . I watch your videos as I find them interesting you cover different ranges of topics and different locations even though I don't get out with my camera anywhere near as much as I should. Hopefully with the rubbish summer we'll get some nice colours for autumn

Hi Stuart, I agree with you. I watch a few of the big numbers channels because I like the presenters but I also love the channels with smaller numbers such as Rick Bebbington and Joshua Pegg. They do no do 'gimmicky' and its great. I hate the stupid thumbnails with someone saying "This is Terrible" and it turns out they have forgotten to bring their flask of tea or something. Life is too short though, to carry on if you do not enjoy it. BTW, I loved your rant on The Pubcast about LPOTY and that is another great channel to watch for sheer pleasure.

“In it to win it”…. love vlogs where people are out experiencing landscapes. But there is clearly a RU-vid game - if you want to play it!!

You are spot on Stuart. I have long since given up watching those who put comedy before photography or spend most of their vlog preparing a cheese toastie . The truth is despite the rubbish algorithm, those who want to learn from quality content quickly realise they will only find it from actively searching on you tube and frequently it’s those with modest numbers of subscribers who provide that quality content . Granted there is a lot of rubbish in that search but equally there are gems . Don’t give it up .

The algorithm will always be the trend setter. That's why your channel is my favourite. Stand in the right spot with a box with a hole in it and make a photograph of the marvel of nature. ❤

Wise words. Please don’t compromise.

Bingo! I had a video recently that I said was the one secret to photography which was get out and find your own style. Do not copy someone else and what they do. You will never get good by watching RU-vid. Great video and spot on.

Another thought - I think the audiences are different and trying to please every sort might lead to not capturing any of them. The ones who mainly watch the "Top 10"-videos would probably not enjoy slower vlog style videos. But for me, I watch the vlog style videos more for inspiration and as a relaxing moment in a stressful day to day life 🙂

I’m only 5 minutes in and my respect for you has grown yet more.

Stuart you nailed it , there is so much crap being posted well said There are very few out there who are worth watching and you are right up there😊

I took a break from RU-vid, unsubscribing from many of the channels I used to follow because of this but also the obsession with reviews. Every few months they’ll have a new camera or change brand and always the latest and most expensive. I’m glad I learnt my photography pre RU-vid because it was all about the fun of learning, making mistakes and just enjoying myself. Interesting how you don’t often see these kinds of photographers actually go out and take photographs.

This is why I enjoy your videos and those of Thomas Heaton and Henry Turner - you guys are out in the landscape, talking about what you see, why you choose a particular composition and showing us the landscape that you are in. I can't be doing with the technical stuff, I've never been good with it, I photograph using my instinct for what makes a good image - sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, but that's how I learn. Saying that, if I want to know something technical, I will look it up but I don't want the algorithms shoving it in my face.

Well said, however I wonder how much trade you tube directs your way? As a regular visitor to the lakes have passed your shop a few times, looked in the window seen something interesting only to be in Keswick on the wrong day. Since retiring photography has come to the fore and you tube has been helpful and your channel with a few others have moved my photography forward (a little!). I even managed to visit when you have been open though not recently. Books are fine if you know what you want or find something in your local bookstore but a little video explains a lot. Keep going if you can from an appreciative fan.

So grateful you aren’t willing to compromise to fit the algorithms as I love your videos, they are high quality and informative! I personally hope you do continue but fully understand if you don’t! 12 years ago when I first started to learn photography I nearly quit as I did a photography course in a college and it was a very technical and I didn’t enjoy nor did I comprehend a lot of what was being taught so thought I would never be a good photographer. Thankfully I was recommended workshops through a photographer that taught basic technical info as well as creative knowledge which had me super excited and then realized there are different ways of photographing and for me the extreme technical knowledge was not at all what I wanted or enjoyed, thus today I am a hobbyist photographer and have so much appreciation and gratitude for my hobby that I love so much and fully accept that I will never be that technical photographer nor do I want to be! Love your channel and would really appreciate recommendations of other channels you would recommend as well. I have found a few that I also subscribe to but they seem to be so few and far between to what I want, as I don’t want the “tips & tricks” or “gear” creators! P.S. you are certainly not a negative person, just because you don’t subscribe to “rainbows and unicorns positivity 24/7 365 days attitude” doesn’t make you negative when you share your thoughts and opinions 😂 you seem very well balanced 😊

Hi Stuart, well done for making this video. We try to produce a video weekly if we can and the same as you just enjoy being out, appreciating the landscape. We are a very small channel with little views but we don’t mind because we enjoy it. When you see videos that have those exact titles with thousands of views you know why they have titled the video in that way. We recently did an experiment and included 100-400mm lens in the title and had nearly five times as many views. The sad thing is the view duration dropped out hugely and that’s not the way we’d like to grow our channel. It’s a shame that the smaller channels are hidden away by the algorithms… so much more to see other than the key players. Thanks again for having this conversation 😀 Adele & Max

Interesting points made. I guess for you, ignoring negligible direct income from RU-vid, the issue is deciding relative income potential lost between the shot you missed (or didn’t get quite as ‘perfect’) because you were videoing or editing versus the loss of ‘shop window’ advertising which would then lead to online or in-gallery print sales alongside workshop bookings. I agree that accurately pricing the missed opportunity is very subjective but that is the assumption you will need to make in order to inform your RU-vid or not calculation. As for the technical vs landscape experience debate, I am with most people in avoiding most of the focus stacking, exposure blending, stealing the sky from another exposure advice out there. I worked with film in the pre-digital age and still like many of the images from when the only adjustments of any significance were film type selection, push or pull processing and then paper selection with a bit of dodging or burning on the final print. As a result of that, even using state of the art gear now, I mainly shoot in JPEG, select my in-camera film simulation/exposure compensation and aspect ratio to suit the image. Post processing is in Lightroom and consists of auto levelling, and pushing ‘auto’ on the adjustments with some minor tweaks to sliders afterwards. Some dodging and burning if required. I then go on to print the most worthy shots on A3+ for future viewing. And that is perfect for me - probably 90 seconds per image in post as most of it went on in the camera - I rarely think ‘I wish I had focus/exposure bracketed that’ - if the shot needed that much work, then it wasn’t really what I was seeing on the day anyway. Keep up the good work and I will drop by the gallery sometime soon

I understand your frustration. And I do hope the algoritm gets better when it comes to recommendations. I do belive that there are lots of people out there that still enjoy "on location" type of videos.

I'm in complete agreement. I have never watched one of your videos and regretted it. Your presentations are thoughtful and based on the experience which you have built up over the years. The "quick fix" content reflects some photography magazines. No doubt the algorithms and perhaps the demands of paid sponsorship have much to answer for. Keep doing the videos your way, Stuart, as I can always take something useful from watching you in the field.

I agree. I’ve stopped watching a lot of people on here for that exact reason. I would just rather see people out in the field creating images.

Hi Stuart, I apologies in advance as I am far better with numbers and pictures than words and maybe one day I am in Keswick I will pop in to your shop but I think you have touched on a subject that runs deeper. I am not a psychologist but just an accountant with a good dosing of life’s experiences. Social media with all its benefits and potential exposure to the world has also it’s own shackles. I think social media has created a very formulaic approach to “success”…. Very much like the X factor… they have created a machine which churns out a certain model/formula. Where has originality gone? People chasing fame/success just replicate what is being already produced but just changing slightly. Specifically re RU-vid, there is clearly a market for How to’s but if you dig deeper than are people producing content about why. As you already explained, it is a lot easier to explain technical aspect than to explain why a photographer/Painter produced this image/art… It plays into the camera market as they strive to constantly improve cameras, when maybe we just need to spend more time in the field understanding why a scene grabs us, why it made us feel emotional….. I hope one day there will be a backlash like punk music did to the music industry in the 70s (before it got commercialised and normalised). Keep up the good work, don’t become a cog!

I agree 100% with what you are saying, I have watched quite a few of the big channels lately to try and learn something about photography but the advice is not always consistent, which puts me off watching sometimes. Recently been watching some of the smaller channels out there and you are right there are some good photographers who deserve more views.

I know what you mean and I've noticed it more too. One good thing to come out of it is that it has help me decide who to cut out of my watch list 🤣 I'm one of those that doesn't get excited about technicalities and gear, I take photos and if I like them I'll show them. On the rare occassion, even sell them 😲. You do what you need to do and more importantly, what you're comfortable doing. That way, you'll enjoy it and if you enjoy what you do then the quality of what you do rises. 😁

The video we didn’t know we needed! I’ve stopped so many people that I used to enjoy because they are churning out the sort of video you talk about. I just want to be inspired to go and explore new places and get out and about!

Well said Stuart, there are only a few that I follow, who make great content. You are one of them, the others haven't got a clue.

Keep to your principles! Some of us do enjoy your content, which is field based. Keep up the good work.

Nothing like a good ole rant, you do right, must admit I don't watch videos with them tiles and will not make anything like that ! ( I Hope ! Ha-Ha) I totally agree with you around the views etc, especially tiny creators like myself tend to get ignored, but we do it for the love of creating, and nothing else. All the best Mr, will pop in and see you in your shop next time I'm up in the Lakes.

Really admire your honesty here, for me I really enjoy content like yours where you take us out with you and show us the experience and your way of thinking in the landscape. There is a place for tips, but I hate the way the algorithm pushes it in our faces. I'd hate to see you quit RU-vid, but would completely understand, as your business is key and you have mouths to feed. In my miniscule corner of RU-vid I often try to put the images first and talk about them afterwards, but its a real balance as I fear that it creates a disconnect with the viewer. But the image always comes first.

Stuart, I agree with everything you said and understand you rethinking RU-vid Videos. But from a purely selfish point of view your videos enlighten me and I learn so much watching you in the field. Your composition is amazing. You truly have a lot to share. Kind Regards

Thanks for this video, Stuart. I agree with you 100%. I did a video recently about things I don't like about photography, and one was people get too caught up in how sharp they think their lens is and worry too much about their gear rather than using it. I do agree RU-vid pushes the technical side way too much and not enough about getting up early and learning your own personal style. I decided to make videos that I want to create and if it only gets a few views then so be it. I prefer to talk about what its like to wander around taking photos and the pros and cons related to being a photographer and not a camera specialist. Good luck and keep going.

Someone had to say it 😂 one of the most true things you said, Getting out and shoot shoot shoot!! RU-vid is to fault, bang on! It rewards shite. My channel has nothing in terms of technical it’s all about the love and experience and struggle sometimes, RU-vid will never suggest me. Bang on mate. Hope the bank holiday is good for you, all the best Stu! A pint on me. Oh and that’s another thing, why is it in the country giving just a couple of Bob is a big no, if you enjoy it, buy a pint for them, hit the tab and give a couple of quid.

It’s a hard one, I got into RU-vid photography videos during lockdown, probably with those clickbait videos. I’ll be honest, I’ve learnt a lot, my photography has massively improved, and my style has started to develop. However, it’s the videos which are in the field which I’ve enjoyed the most, and I totally get what you say, its got to the point now where the content just feels recycled. I think the issue is, the algorithm pushes what gets views, and what drive engagement. Cynically, I’d suggest you put out more clickbait content to grown your audience, then bring more of your true content, but I don’t think that’s what you enjoy, or aligned to your value, so agree with your approach. I think the issue is, when the channels get big enough and driven by sponsors, it then becomes a pressure game for views and clicks and less about the why of the channel. What’s also frustrating is I recently subscribed to your channel, but I had to search to find this video after seeing it mentioned on instagram.

Stuart, this is a great video mate & I totally appreciate where you are coming from with You tube. i don't think you need to move away from you tube as i see it as been a little side line activity for you. Your main passions is & should always be your Photography, Your Gallery & classes you offer. Do not let you tube & you tube viewers become a distraction to your Photography & Gallery. For those of use who appreciate your work out in the field & on the walls of your gallery we will always watch & enjoy any video you produce as we know what it has taken for you to create whilst also getting those amazing compositions you share with your subscribers. Do not miss out on a great shoot / composition when making videos as these are only a side line.

I enjoyed this video Stuart . Chasing the algorithm may be bring success but it won’t make you happy . Keep shooting and upload if you like . Peace x

Couldn’t agree more and I get why it is an issue for you. I’ve noticed I have unsubscribed from pretty much all of the photographers who pitch coffee making b roll, “help my algorithm”, van life conversions, what’s my bag and what’s in my bag nonsense and squarespace sponsorship. I am interested in the photography itself, being out there with whatever gear and getting those images.

I agree with everything you say.I'm not getting out with my camera as much as I used to so look forward to seeing you out in the landscape.Don't want a load of technical stuff.Hope you keep doing the vids.

Would miss you if you did stop, ive always enjoyed what you do and hopefully im learning something from them and at least you aren't doing a camper van build or cooking your tea..... i will have to get something sorted on a workshop

Hi Stuart, you are a talented photographer that I admire - purchased your calendar for this year! I think RU-vid offers something (a lot actually) for everone - no matter what you're looking for. A great tool for learning and entertainment alike. You simply watch what you feel you need to at the particular time. In my eyes almost all the content has educational and/or pleasing content. I don't see it as a threat to your business (with more and more people learnong the craft). A percentage of these people will walk through your door having been inspired by RU-vid. You don't want to bite the hand that feeds you. I really enjoy your contributions....please continue👍

Hi Stuart, I've watched your videos from day 1, they are always very high quality and informative. I take my hat off to you for discussing this topic today. I have stopped watching other contributers who have gone down the route you highlighted, my choice, but I prefer to watch photographers plying the trade. I hope you keep producing your videos, but if you decide not to, I fully understand your reasons.

Good morning. I agree with what you’re saying wholeheartedly. I previously had just over 1000 viewers, but after being hacked had to close that account and start over and now I seem to be stuck at 500? My content hasn’t changed, but my videos are not being pushed any longer? That’s probably because I’m considered a new Vlogger? It doesn’t bother me too much as I do the videos because I really enjoy doing them the fact that I have a radio, I suppose doesn’t go in my favour!😂. Thanks for sharing. Love you videos don’t give it up.

I totally agree, I also notice that those channels also seem to copy each other and you get swamped with the same stuff. Love your channel so please keep going.

Fantastic, down to earth, say it as it is opinion which is right up my street. Far too many click bait desperadoes using the "epic, hidden, secret etc key words to lure viewers which when I see any, I usually say, yer, no thanks, not interested. As you have mentioned, I find the smaller channels far more interesting as the creators are more humble & quite often very good photographers in my opinion. Will always watch your videos, I fully respect a common sense & no nonsense approach, great video.👍

Spot on Stuart. There are 2 things that grind my gears with a lot of the photography channels 1. Shorts and 2. The very subject that you talk about in this video. Some photographers come across as desperate for attention, so I unsubscribed from their channels. It would be a shame if you stopped Stuart, as you always capture fantastic images and your videos are enjoyable. But I totally get why you'd feel like exiting you tube if the revenue doesn't make business sense.

Thanks

I totally agree with you and many others that the best way to learn landscape photography is to get out there and take photos. That not only enhances your skills, but it gives one a greater appreciation of other landscape photographers. Also, those you tubers who spend all of their video time talking about editing, etc. obviously have a place, but I don't think they necessarily help you become a better photographer because a bad photo cannot be saved by editing tricks.

I'm with you on this Stuart. I follow a few YT photographers including one who "nearly died" recently but as soon as the thumbnail has click bait they get the ignore treatment, although I'm sure there are plenty of new photographers ready to lap up their content. Keep doing what you're doing or I'll have nothing to watch.

Hi Stuart, l could not agree more about the flux of top tips and pro tip content currently on RU-vid. I personally have really cut down on the amount of channels l watch because of this. For me l enjoy content that explores the art and creativity of photography and the journey to get there. I have alwsys enjoyed your channel from eary days for the engaging quality of what you produce thank you for all your efforts.

It is difficult to find good content and I must admit your videos are great. As you say there are a considerable amount of tips and hint videos out there that seem to repeat the same old content, I love the lakes and always look for new locations, as a guy of 73 years my days of climbing mountains are long gone. I am what you might call a drive by location photographer who enjoys videos that inspire me to get out and have a go. So Stuart don't sacrifice your business for the sake of a video .😊

Hi Stuart, couldn’t agree more mate! Haven taken on this hobby 3 years ago I started watching tutorials of how to use/perform a process etc and I feel it bogs you down. You couldn’t be more correct in what your saying, I have learned far more being out there actually doing it and learning/developing a style of my own and what I’m happy and get enjoyment following through. Excellent mate.

Very honest comments Stuart and I've got to say that is what I like about you - the honesty of your channel. If you do decide to hang up your video camera then I will miss your videos but you have to do what is right for you and your business. I got fed up of other channels that I had watched before as I was seeing less and less landscape photography and more of the 'how I made this' and 'this is what I'm having for dinner' content. I also agree about the technical aspect, if I want that, I can read a book, Google or go on a course. Watching you in the field and seeing how you compose a shot is what I watch for. So for as long as you make them, I will be watching, liking and hopefully, commenting. Cheers.

Well done Stuart, I was considering releasing a vid on this topic but wasn't brave enough. Thank you for filling that gap (highlighting the crap). Have a great week 🙏🙏🙏

it's amazing. Some RU-vid creators in Germany from the photography sector (2k - 10k subscribers) are having the same discussion and there is a lot of frustration among the creators. I myself have limited my activity on youtube in favour of more photography. But creating videos is also fun. But only if you stay true to yourself. So please keep up the good work! We need people like you who deliver quality. otherwise there will soon only be 10 tips videos.

Well said Stuart! Looking forward to getting out and about on the October workshop

Having a small channel myself (far smaller than yours) I can understand your frustration. I think you're an exceptionally talented photographer and I always enjoy seeing your images - I think photographers of all abilities could learn a lot from your videos. And it's clear that they do, you receive thousands of views per video and I think it's sometimes easy to forget that each one of those views is a real person who potentially receives a load of value from watching your content- put all of those people in a room and you'd consider that a pretty sizeable audience. It's also important to consider that many of the creators I can guess you're referring to aren't 'big' channels because they make 'top 10' this or 'pro photography tips' that. Though those videos may get a lot of views, I think they're sizeable channels getting the majority of the views because they also love the video-making process and because of that, they're consistently uploading, have a good understanding of editing, pacing, and storytelling. I find youtube rewarding because I love making videos, but if the sole metric of 'success' was about getting tens of thousands of views every week i'd have given up a long time ago - just my two cents worth! Keep doing you're thing if you enjoy it, I know I for one enjoy seeing your videos! But RU-vid shouldn't feel like a grind.

I always look forward to new videos from you, and enjoy your approach and your photos. I like to explore new areas (new to me, anyway) through your videos, and get a lot out of watching how a pro like yourself approaches a scene. I find your videos motivational. So while I understand that making these videos must be a huge time suck (I couldn’t do it myself), I hope you keep your channel going as long as you can. Thanks for the post!

Thank you for this!!! Last several weeks in particular, when I search for "landscape photography" on this platform, I get NOTHING but this sort of crap, some getting quite polarizing against pro's vs hobbyists, or giving actually horrendous advice (completely inaccurate), and almost NONE of them actually showcase the landscape much, nor delve into the actual creative process that makes landscape photography such a joy to undertake! Feeding the algorithm is just killing creativity on this platform, and all the other trash platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and we need to start moving away from them ASAP to places that actually encourage creativity rather than technical and competition, like Flickr and Vero!

Stuart in my humble opinion your absolutely spot on. I personaly am very fed up with people who should know better just churning out 7 ways to improve this or 5 ways to get the results you are looking for. Whenever I see one of those vlogs now I just skip on to watch someone such as yourselfe out in the field creating first class images. Please continue with the vlogs, your are very entertaining and educational.

Interesting video and I feel your frustration. The problem is that RU-vid is essentially a search engine and therefore benefits those creators who feed videos that are conducive to popular search criteria. When I started photography as a hobby, I found it invaluable to help find all the information I needed to learn the basics. Now I have learned the basics, I much prefer videos like yours that help me see things through the eyes of an experienced photographer and provide inspiration to find new locations, new composition ideas etc. Good to see you sticking to your principles and you will certainly build a good audience of dedicated followers who enjoy your work. Unfortunately, although there are exceptions, I suspect that to grow a really large RU-vid channel then you will probably have to sell out and feed the algorithm which is a bit sad really as the platform really should reward the most talented photographers like your good self 😊

Well said. Just keep on keeping on. All that other stuff will take care of itself. Some of the guys want to tell a story cinematically, which is fine, but I think it intrudes on their photography. That said, they're probably more dependent on You Tube for their livelihood. Carry on. 👍🥂

Hi Stuart, interesting video. I've always followed you since picking up a camera and always enjoy your work. As for your future on YT, I totally understand where you are coming from. YT seems to be saturated with photography videos etc, I've only ever followed a few people religiously. At the end of the day you need to do what's right for you, for your life/work balance. Regardless of whatever you decide I'll still be following. 👌

I love your content Stuart and for me who has loads to learn, find your videos informative. There are VERY few photographers that are willing to impart on their knowledge and are only in it for the likes on SM platforms. It depends what your end goal is and if doing the vlogs is giving you complete joy?? I do know that if you want to grow an online business and following, you literally have to be posting content daily.. Maybe offering more workshops is a solution, then it’s a win win. Trust your gut.. 😊

Great video and well said Stuart. I was out in Langdale on Tuesday and did a piece to camera along similar lines assessing the future of my channel but not said as eloquently as you have just put it. This should come out on Sunday. I just want to get out and hopefully get some good images and record the process and showcase the area to encourage other out into the environment. As you say, ultimately you only get better by doing, watching a video will not make you a better photographer but getting out there and working out what works will. Thank you for being so honest.

great points made Stuart. The beginners vrs pro titles are awful!

Nail, hit, head here Stuart. I tend to just skip past and not view those types of videos. I've no interest on being told how to take a photo, I want to learn myself through trial and error, if I missed the shot first time then I'll happily go back until I get what I want. I enjoy videos like yours that show a kind of story and then show the image. I seen also channels say about hating to do gear review videos and then 2 weeks down the line a gear review appears all because those types of videos are getting great views. I like watching channels that are about showing the passion of photography not something that's made just to get likes.

First and foremost let your channel be for you and reflect you.. That's what makes your channel 'yours' and it's fine .Berlin has been way too hot .Oh there is no justice ..Cheers Stuart , like 85

I hope you don’t stop, I really enjoy watching you work and find your insights very useful. I agree with the comment about the ‘big’ boys of landscape photography and I too am guilty of watching them. However I do have several smaller channels that I watch , mainly because the vloggers have interesting things to say or have great enthusiasm and passion for what they are doing. One I watch has, in the past, ended his vlogs with some recommendations for other smaller channels which I have also watched. I would rather less frequent/regular content so long as the content is there and you do that in spades!

Yeah, this is the sad reality. I refuse to start with click-bait titles and thumbnails since I realised I make my videos almost as much for myself as for my viewers. I do them the way I want to see them. If someone else finds joy in watching them - great. If not, it will be me sort of having an archive of my journey. BUT, I can choose to do so since I don´t rely on my photography for a living. For professional photographers this is more of a problem. I find myself often clicking on those types of videos but I rarely stay. The channels I prefer watching on a more regular basis are ones like yours. I´d rather have a smaller number of true subscribers than a bloated number that does not relate to anything..

Totally agree buddy, I done a similar live on instagram recently. You have to do what you have to do mate, it would be a shame to loose you for sure!

Thanks for making this video Stuart, I completely agree, I've been thinking of making a video on this topic aswell, now I don't have too, I couldn't have said it any better!

Thing is I discovered you because of you RU-vid vids and this resulted in me visiting your Gallery and buying a framed picture I love and I have bought a calendar or two so I worry that if you stop the RU-vid vids you’ll loose out on a route to sales? The videos I love are the ones where you document how you took a great picture then the end result eg sunrise from Catbells etc Love your down-to-earth approach 👍🍺 PS I binned Thomas Heaton when he talked about “hiking from the trail head” at Seatoller I believe he “walked from the start of the path”FFS!!

Sad truth about this platform... Well described... Thanks!

I look forward to your videos more than the equipment review ones. I enjoy your content and approach. Don't let the hoards drive you away because when you're in the field setting a scene looking at all the little details within the composition it's really special. Seeing the results from that in the final images is great. Keep up doing it your way!

Thanks for raising and expressing these views so well, Stuart and with such care. And it looked like in one take too! which i think shows how deeply felt your concerns are on these issues. A quick scroll down the comments section so far (11.10am) seems to confirm how many of your viewers agree with where you're coming from on this. You can add me to this list too. There is so much to say i find it hard to do any of my own thoughts justice on a comments section. Maybe the way fwd is to find a direction and form of dissemination which inspires others thro showcasing your art but also builds on the loyal band of followers you have nurtured to now! In other words. Don't just bugger off without letting us know!

I think that the fact that a lot of these channels are committed to weekly content may add to the appeal of sometimes resorting to these type of easy videos and I can understand that as who would want to create something original evey week!

Been thinking the same thing recently, thanks for mentioning it.. missed a trick with the thumbnail, should have been shoving a lens in our face, a camera in our face, should be pointing at both and holding your head, 5 hands required.. 😂 , photos is the main reason I head out but never talk about gear or photos either tbh, Great chat. 100% agree. 👍🏻

I agree, Stuart. I still subscribe to easily see what they're doing, but I rarely watch their videos anymore, or maybe just catch a highlight or two. One in particular has ridden the "Amateur vs Pro" stuff into the ground and several others are right on his tail.

Spot on Stuart. I personally dont care for any of that crap. To me, the singular most important thing to try and learn how to build a picture was to buy a large format camera and, as you say, practise.

Hi Stuart, really interesting point to address. It seems like there's a move to try to turn an art into a science, because there's safety and comfort in that. There is science to facilitating the art, obviously, but without the magic that can't be reduced to rules and techniques... it falls flat. Whether you call it creativity, or having an eye... it's practice and a nebulous combination of right place right time and recognising the potential of what's in front of you. It's much harder than learning a bit of Photoshop, in my view! Hope you're well, keep the videos coming. PS. Not negative at all - considered debate is brilliant.

I, too, really dislike the "10 tips the pros never tell you" algorithm-driven videos. They drive me kind of crazy. I'd much rather watch your videos and those of other photographers who are taking me on a photo journey. That said, a lot of people on this thread have got the causality wrong. It's not the algorithms, it's the audience. The algorithm was trained on what the audience wants, not the other way around. This is not a RU-vid issue; it's a people issue. And it's always been this way. When I started in photography in the 1970s, there were gear/tip magazines like Popular Photography and Modern Photography, and there were art and craft magazines that showed great work and discussed the art. The gear magazines had 10-20X the number of subscribers. I've been in and around the business of cameras and photography since the 1980s, and in every channel and medium, from Thursday night classes at the camera store to international magazines, the number of people interested in gear and learning the 5 rote rules that "the pros know" has always been far, far larger than the number of people interested in the imagery, and the making of images. Taken collectively, it's just who human beings are. Every artist has to come to terms with that in their own way.

I avoid the “Top Tips” videos like the plague & it’s obvious which channels chase the algorithm, again to be avoided! I’m far more interested in artistic development & expression. Of course it’s great to see your wonderful landscape for those of us who haven’t easy access to that sort of scenery & enjoying watching your approach to it is why you’d always get my vote but completely understand it’s not a 2 minute job for you to put together. Perhaps you should gives us some suggestions of the other good quality platforms who mention & we can give them a look too. All the best Stuart I hope it works out for you.

I thought you said a Girly rant, I almost went off. The closed captioned saved you 🙂

Absolutely echos my own thoughts Stu, I think the swing Into click bait videos is simply down to people chasing dwindling numbers and far less interest. Agreed there’s a handful of “top” creators getting 95% of the views but in reality they aren’t producing better videos than others, they are just pushed a lot harder by RU-vid. I’ve been having the same thoughts recently about it being worth it or not and have considered doing videos just for my website as I love making them. Like you, time will tell and will see how I feel in future. Well done for speaking out too, stay well mate

The key thing is to ask if RU-vid is driving you to do things that you don't want to do, or is it providing a shop window to your products? Some creators clearly want to milk the RU-vid advertising as an income stream. I don't see you as playing that game, and this video confirms that. I for one enjoy your videos more than the 'my new lens' type stuff, but my mantra has always been 'if you stop enjoying doing something, stop doing it'. I use RU-vid as a video sharing platform for non-photography material and don't give a stuff about the algorithm; the folk who know me get my content. But you are in business, would folk book on your workshops, buy your calendar, etc, without the exposure you get through RU-vid? I suspect not, but only you can know where your custom comes from. Keep your pecker up!

No other words other than well said Stuart.

FWIW I really appreciate your honesty, but especially your photography (and as an American, I do go for the accent). As a "professional amateur" who works full time elsewhere and makes literally only a few bucks from photography each year I can say that I'm exceptionally bored with YT landscape photo vlogs at the moment. Like many, I devoured them for a few years, but after a while I could care less about gear or exposure triangles or focus stacking. I have settled on my gear, know how to use it and have no desire to change it or upgrade. I do love photography and enjoy watching the pros, like yourself, out in the field. That being said after a while for me even many of the in-the-field vlogs have all started to feel too similar. The epicenter of landscape photo vlogs on YT seems to be the UK and there are only so many moors, tarns, waterfalls, sea stacks, lochs, etc. I seek out photographers who are going to locations that are new, or new to recognized YT landscape photo vloggers. I don't need to see more from the Scottish Highlands or Namibia or Tuscany or Iceland or the Dolomites or Patagonia or Death Valley. I fully recognize that most people vlogging from those spots are doing so because they are leading workshops at those spots, and vloggers are going where the money is, but I now find them mostly boring. I've found myself gravitating more towards people who are talking about the philosophy of photography (or other art) or history, or other things... topics FAR removed from the technical. Videos like your Success vs failure one from a few months back are what I am looking for now, but I'm probably in the minority. I've also been going back through Sean Tucker's vids that focus on the 'why' and not the 'how' or photography. Thanks for doing what you do! If you decide to leave YT all the best to you and if I ever do make a trip across the pond I'll make sure to look up your gallery!

A tricky subject, and fair play to you for raising it and telling us all how you feel about it. I have a small channel, but my purpose behind the channel is my own and I decided right from the get go that I was NOT going to chase the algorithm. It is my channel and I'll post on it what I choose, and what I choose is driven by my own purpose. If people watch and comment then great. If they don't then the channel still serves its purpose regardless. I've seen lots of channels start and stop in the 2 years I've been doing it, so I came up with a plan and a schedule that suits me and keeps content moving. The schedule probably means that YT doesn't push my content out to other views all the time, but again that doesn't drive how I approach. I really enjoy your "on location" videos so please don't stop doing them :) All the best.

Totally agree with you. Social media platforms are the same; prioritising early adopters and those prepared to game the algorithm. Ultimately they don’t care about content creators or viewers - they’re running an advertising platform, and anything else is a mere side-effect of that. I enjoy the pace and insight of your videos, as well as the scenery, so it’d be a shame if you stopped. But I wouldn’t blame you if you did, and I’m sure YT couldn’t care less. Their ads will still get seen, whether they’re on your videos or the next guy’s.