I Shot in JPEG for 3 Years. Here's what I learned (Fujifilm X100VI, XT5, Ricoh GR III) | Summary and Q&A
TL;DR
The transition from raw to JPEG photography allows for creative freedom and effective shooting techniques.
Key Insights
- 🍓 Shifting from raw to JPEG can transform a photographer's workflow by encouraging more intentional shooting practices.
- 👀 Customizing film simulation recipes can greatly enhance the overall look of JPEG images in alignment with personal shooting styles.
- 🥌 Accurate calibration of camera displays is essential for precise exposure and tone representation in JPEG photography.
- 👻 The JPEG format allows for substantial editing flexibility, countering the prevalent perception of its limitations.
- 🥺 Creative constraints in photography can lead to greater artistic freedom and innovative approaches to capturing images.
- 💁 Dual-format shooting (JPEG and raw) provides a safety net while embracing the immediate results of JPEG.
- 🐢 Using external filters can improve image quality without slowing down the shooting process, helping to maintain creativity.
Transcript
(upbeat music) - After 10 years of meticulously shooting in raw and manually editing every single photo, I've made a radical shift to a JPEG only workflow using Fujifilm and Ricoh film simulation recipes. This transition required a lot of experimentation and a lot of testing, but with three years of shooting JPEG under my belt, I've learned a few k... Read More
Questions & Answers
Q: What encouraged you to switch from raw to JPEG photography?
After a decade of manually editing raw images, I found that shooting JPEG with specific film simulation recipes let me streamline my workflow. The shift has led to a more intentional and artistic approach to photography. Rather than constantly editing files, I can focus on capturing great images in the moment. Over three years, I've seen significant improvements in my work and creativity.
Q: How do you ensure accurate screen calibration on your camera?
To calibrate my LCD screen and electronic viewfinder (EVF), I pull an image from my SD card and view it on a trusted monitor like my MacBook Pro. By comparing the displayed image to actual outputs, I adjust my camera's LCD brightness settings to align the tones as closely as possible. This step is critical for achieving consistent exposure and contrast in my photographs.
Q: Can you elaborate on the choice to shoot JPEG plus raw?
Initially, I adopted a JPEG-only approach, but I found shooting both formats gives me peace of mind. By using JPEG for immediate results and retaining a raw file for potential refinements, I strike a balance. Having the raw files allows me to use in-camera editing tools or software like Fuji X Raw Studio to adjust images if I change my mind later.
Q: Why do you recommend adjusting clarity settings on Fujifilm cameras?
When utilizing the in-camera clarity settings on Fujifilm, photographers often experience delays due to the processing required after capturing each photo. This can make the camera feel slower than it is. I advise turning clarity settings down to zero and using external filters to add effects without sacrificing shooting speed or responsiveness.
Q: How does embracing creative constraints impact your photography?
By embracing limitations inherent in a JPEG workflow, I find that it encourages more deliberate composition and lighting choices. Rather than over-relying on extensive post-processing or complex editing techniques, I focus on capturing the moment creatively. Creative constraints challenge me to adapt and innovate, resulting in more authentic and impactful images.
Q: What editing flexibility do JPEG files actually have?
Contrary to popular belief, JPEG files offer significant editing leeway. You can adjust exposure settings by about a stop and shift white balance without noticeable degradation. This gives me the flexibility to refine images conveniently, whether on my computer or directly from my phone, while still maintaining high-quality results.
Q: How has this transition affected your photography business?
My shift to JPEG has streamlined my workflow, allowing me to focus more on shooting and less on editing. This change has not only made me more efficient but also helped me produce compelling work that resonates with clients. The simplified process has ultimately contributed positively to building and maintaining my photography business.
Summary & Key Takeaways
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The speaker shares his journey from shooting in raw to exclusively using JPEG, highlighting the benefits of using Fujifilm and Ricoh film simulation recipes.
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Key lessons from this transition include the importance of reworking film simulation recipes to suit personal styles and the need to calibrate camera screens for accurate exposure.
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Emphasizing the creative constraints of JPEG, the speaker encourages photographers to achieve better shots in-camera rather than relying heavily on post-processing.