Nah fam run it back , when you said “it feels like the OGs are poisoning the well” that was a bar, it feels like now the the platform is no longer beneficial to some creators , or they’re not getting the results they want, there’s a call to fault the platform vs maybe their individual experience, it sort of lacks the accountability on their end imho

Don’t forget that even though some big channels may beat the smaller channels to the punch on reviews due to embargoes, in the weeks and years that follow that doesn’t matter as much because all the videos are out. And we love having somebody like you with a different take on it.

As someone who almost never gets the early exclusive there are still ways to tell your story and have people find it interesting. The people who get the product first seldom really answer the questions the people need to hear. You just need to figure out what your audience is looking for, just listen to them and they will tell you the topics they want to see that will give you breakout videos. I started YT as hobby 8 years ago at 47! In the KZfaq game I’m practically a dinosaur. I started with an ok web cam and a mid tier cellphone and didn’t really upgrade till this year!

I feel you about the OG's and their influence. The whole wave of "im quitting youtube" hit me hard, but after putting it into perspective, I realized that it all makes sense. 99% of everyone quitting made youtube their job. Imagine your job telling you to produce 2-3 of whatever they invest in every week and if the numbers aren't right then you're fired. Thats essential what every big creator did or does. They put themselves under SO MUCH STRESS for youtube, something they loved doing and now are DONE. That's why I actually stopped worrying about producing content every week or so. Lately I haven't been on at all but i would do maybe a video a month and everyone told me youll never make it like that, but I would always respond with .... well, Im not trying to MAKE IT, it just makes me happy. Don't turn your happiness into your job.

The way you set up and shoot is super dope so i will be taking notes.

Man this is like asmr that was the most relaxed I’ve been in a long time 🤣

Wow, man. I'm really impressed and inspired by your style of video here. Thank you for this! You earned a new sub!

Sir hello I'm a from Kazakhstan and today when I sit down to drink a tea and to watch some KZfaq , I bumped onto this exact video I never heard or saw you , and I felt very lame when you said that because of some OG you was turned off to shoot a video , and my point is that watching you talking made me feel calm and relax and I felt that I'm learnt something new , because for a while I have been wandering about this topic and happily your video popped out. Sir I feel like you gonna make some change , so if you think to shoot a video so do it...🔥

When I clicked on this video I didn’t know who you were or what this video was really about. But I have had the same thought, “KZfaq Is Weird Right Now”. When I started my channel about 5 years ago, I went in thinking I was just going to make stuff I wanted to. Stuff that I liked. Somewhere along the way, about 2 years in…I started trying to play the “KZfaq Game”. Yanno, the stuff that tailored to what was popular, or what would get views. I did that for a bit and it burnt me out. I didn’t like what I was making, it started to feel overwhelming, and it simply made making videos a drag. This year I decided I was going back to making stuff for me. It won’t get the same views or attention, maybe. But at least I can be proud of what I’m putting out. KZfaq is weird, and unfortunately it’s gone the way of making stuff for the money, views, and retention rates. I totally get your frustration and agree with a lot of what you said. I’m happy I found you and this video. Looking forward to seeing more from you.

It’s as if some big creators aren’t happy their hobby became their job and turned into a full fledged business. I’m just starting out on my other channel but I come from the business world so I say bring on the creator as a business environment, it’s a world I’m built for.

Fam! 1) Use the OG commentary as your own jump off! For example: TITLE: (Insert Influencer) Says This Phone Sucks. He’s WRONG. Bring that smoke. It’s not about controversy. It’s marketing. The contrarian approach works well on KZfaq, especially when it is authentic. 2) The “Embargo” dilemma is also an opportunity. The afterthought is valuable. Let them talk up the new gear, then AFTER the huge marketing push is over, and the hype has died off, you give us a more levelheaded, less sensationalized take on said product. We, the audience are always craving integral content. 3) Some of the KZfaqrs claiming to be leaving, will be back. On the other hand, what some call “leaving” really means restructuring. They failed to structure their business in a way that allowed them to JUST BE CREATORS. They now spend the majority of their days managing teams, having meetings and sitting on computers doing correspondence. As you grow, make sure to structure your team in a way that allows you to spend the majority of your time doing what you love. A key point is to hire from the top down, rather than from the bottom up. It will save you sooooo much time and stress. Good luck on your KZfaq journey!

Good video, and I feel you on everything bro.. But my opinion is that even though some KZfaqrs get to make their videos before products come out I feel it's about the vibe the KZfaqr brings is what makes the difference for me. And your vibe is different from others, so keep doing yo thing bro. Good vibes!

It's funny, how is sorta creeped in but slowly over time I began to distrust most videos when "influencers" are given the gear to make the video. I at least learn to read between the lines. Recently I saw a big creator encourage viewers multiple times to watch videos by content creators who were not given the gear for free. It was weird. I am not interested in the phone you are reviewing but I am sure there are people out there that want that content. To another point, I worked a job for 10 years and I was burned out, quit and did something totally different for a few years a significantly less pay. Then I went back. I just think since content creation as a job is a fairly new thing, and maybe a new job needs to come out of so many of the big creators bailing. People have financial planners, why not Content Creator Coach, to teach people how to pace their career. And one last note, I find that lately I am subscribing to new creators. I don't know if the KZfaq algorithm is broken (for me) but small creators is where I am finding the most enjoyable content these days. Sorry, one more last comment . . . love the camera work. I have never seen anyone record at a distance like that. I have been mulling over getting a wireless microphone and after seeing those amazing shots, I think I am going to pull the trigger on that and see what creative thing I can come up with. Who would have thought sitting on a toilet could be a cool shot.

Man you hit the nail on the head with this one.

Best time to come in.

i’m not successful on yt by no means yet, but i will say some of my most successful videos is long term reviews. i’m salty bout embargos too and call it out all the time, but viewers love real long term reviews too and a lot of big tech youtubers don’t be doing those or don’t have real world experiences to offer. dope video bro

I've felt it. So I know you've felt it too. Let's talk about it. - that part right there. p.s. I support new KZfaq Creators since as much as I watch KZfaq, I should be one so you earned a sub and a like just now :)

Okay, but your cinematography is like... something I didn't know I needed. I had to watch this twice to make sure I heard what you said. Like.. I watched the first time. I heard the second time. I was so captivated by this different style. It's like a 4th wall break without being one. Also, what you said about Martin Scorsese, yes. That was no coincidence. There's a shift to being against what is popular, is popular. People have power and are using it irresponsibly simply for shock value. Do your video man. There's only one you and people will appreciate YOUR take on it. I can watch 5 videos on the same topic, and one creator will stand out for me. Do you.

Bro, I completely agree with all of your points. These people are complaining about a point and we’re struggling to get to. Some of them got to this point without all of the issues and problems and requirements that we have to meet so I understand that they have issues, but I get tired of their complaining. and I feel you it’s the same way in the music production space the high-level influencers get all of the free gear and they are able to drop reviews before you even drop one. I’m struggling to get monetized even with all the followers that I have no, I sub your channel.

You're the inspiration now... just a shift occurred and it's time for the new originals to step in and step up..x

From another small channel... good analysis of the current state of affairs! 📸🎯💯

I do not think it is the stress of making the videos. The stress comes from maintaining the viewership count. Once you pick up sponsorships that is a must. It is tough to do without clickbaiting.

It’s been rough, at least in the photo/video space, since prob 2018/2019 and only getting worse. Tbh, I’ve been taking the time to leave objective but firm comments addressing this. If the viewers don’t say anything, it’ll never change. Some of the shills take it personally, but at the end of the day, lot of these creators are just wasting viewers time, and I personally don’t appreciate that.

You're so right about this. I have to be super careful because everyone is sponsored.

What you said about the long time KZfaqrs poisoning the well happens in other industries too. In my UX world, we refer to it as pulling the ladder up behind you, purposely making it difficult for new talent to come up. Try to ignore that and keep making your content.

One point, tv shows don’t last die ever. We shouldn’t expect a KZfaq channel to last forever either

Well done; your visuals are nice, and I like your colors.

I had a very similar feel after watching marques & the apple goggles. Notably theres some contractural agreement there, but its presented as a “honest/unsponsored” review

Inspiration and Authenticy 💪🏽

Yup, I'm feeling this too. Like your style, man. Thanks! I've smashed all the smashers! Salutations from astonishingly grey & chilly Ireland! ☘💪🏽👀👍🏽☘

i feel ya, its so strange seeing these super successful youtubers reviewing products for 2 weeks and then making either the assumption that you need to get it or its boring. i mean, theres a clear difference between spending a lot of money on, gear, whether it be phones, cameras, cars, products, and having to pay for the product your self. in the example of the phone, does it excite you? then make a video, sure some of the big people says something different, but there's an audience, who like your self is slowly loosing interest in the big youtubers. For me personally, i find i like youtubers with less than or close to 10k subs, they just seem more real, and more excited for the whole thing. i also think that the big creators made the error of turning it into a business, with lots of employees, suddenly they are not creators, but employers. it all comes down to what is your goal for the channel? do you want to share your opinion, excitement, creativity with the world. or do you want free stuff? for me its the first. i hope to inspire and help people watching my videos. and heck, ill learn some filmmaking in the process and meet new people. i dont normally post this long of a response, but your video really resonated with me. thanks for a great video, love the cinematic style "rant". keep going!

Great video! Here’s the thing…so OG’s made content on how to be content creators and ppl followed and some learned how to be better than them so ultimately they left because youtube is saturated and no longer fun for them. IMO

Man I feel ya. I also think there's a lot of good things happen on a lot of small channels like ours. I think story and personality is king.. I have dwelled on some of that you've said as well but all we can do is just keep going. I love making videos and honestly I just stopped talking about gear and just do my craft despite it not necessarily being what the algorithm wants. The people that do watch my videos which is nowhere near what I wish it was seemed to like it. I feel you from that perspective that's my perspective. right. you see these people are living the dream that we're working hard to make it happen for ourselves. Late in the game as well......... Life isn't perfect no matter where you're at. is my thought. Could also talk about the corporationism coming into the youtube space.... I really like your style definitely subscribed. It's cool to see a video like this recommend it to me at all. Much love and If it means anything I take smaller channels more serious with reviews nowadays. Look at the bigger channels as more of an overview look a little more than an advertisement depending on the curator.

Sitting on the toilet but defecating on the microphone! By far favorite shot this year. Your not wrong

I agree with everything said. I remember pre-ordering a tech item and youtubers already had the product and review weeks prior

mannn the way you lit that talking head is cleann, looks like you used some haze, inspirational

I love the no bullshit video, really good perspective on what’s going on. Make that phone video sometimes it’s nice to see a video from someone who is not just going to read the spec sheet.

Man I appreciate this video! 💯

Change = weird = always = normal. The only thing different about these things you are talking about and what is normal is your perspective. Life, Death, Peace, War, Feast, Famine, Hot, Cold, they are just the ebbs and flows of space and time. Using a different lens does not change the scene, but it can change what is seen.

“Is it cinema cuz I’m on the toilet, but I’m not like on the toilet” killed me 😂😂 The way I look at it, let them clear the path for us. Real talk. Dope take sir, this was great.

Great video. Those big creators are just burnt out. They have turned something they enjoyed doing into a job and now it’s real work. It feels no different to them than the jobs they used to walk into everyday to get paid. They get everything and have gotten used to it, so nothing impresses them. But in the end the creators complaining and leaving youtube need to realize they helped turn youtube into this.

When I'm really looking to buy a product or see if it would be good for me, I actively seek out smaller channels for reviews because there's usually less bias. So I hope smaller channels keep making those. I also think some of the OGs are bored because the algorithm has boxed them in, or maybe they've boxed themselves in. Feels like once you're in a certain lane and known for it, only those types of videos do well. And so you get forced to make those and creativity suffers and burnout creeps in.

When I make videos it’s based off my interests. Releasing content after content does only make your brand weak less likable to me. Way too many people today are copy’s. Just do you and enjoy the journey.

The gear video segment is exactly how it goes!!!

Great intro, hooked me in! The fact is we all need to make money but the way we make it should be on the up and up. When I trust someone I'll actively go search for their affiliate link to give them some kudos. If they break that trust it will hurt in the future. Great video!

“Is it cinema, cause I’m on the toilet, but I’m..nvm” lmao

Great shots bro! I’ve been watching KZfaq for 8 years now solely we don’t even have cable fam it’s pointless, only thing that scares me is the media shifting in. Like if we aren’t watching you on tv why in the hell would we want you to come here 😂 keep KZfaq safe man. I like to control my timeline not be forced to avoid things everyday. Like id pay money to have blue face and chrisean rock off my timeline.

How the hell have I only just found your channel? Love it bro, so much truth. Subbed

thats why i didnt fall into the fever with the dji mic 2 i already have the dji mic 1 and they do the same work, some of those youtuber that come out with video for new product they making their money not buying anything just hype other people to buy it mean while they get it for free.so use what you have and the need for something else will come and then you buy what you need.

You've summed life up pretty well. There's nothing new under the sun man. The small butcher cant compete with supermarkets either so they don't bother. They sell boutique meats and offer good advice. Supermarkets aren't that personal. The point is, its a point of difference for the small butcher. Or you could just reach out to companies and say give me your stuff to review and I'll say nice things.....nah I wouldn't do that either. I don't run a You tube channel. If I did.......it would depend.....do I rely on it for income? If so then compromises need to be made as with any job. It's OK

S24 ultra took a step back to me. I have s23 ultra The 100x zoom change was a deal breaker for me. I think I can get the same quality with last yr's version

I think you maked a lot of good points. But also it seems like you have a new secret weapon. This video is so different and unique that it has blown up on day one. I'm glad your channel was recommended to me. +1 Sub!

Hit the nail on the head. Great video 🤙🏼

I agree 100% but I think it gives you and I a chance to make somthing out of our KZfaq channels. Im tired of the cookie cutter material that mostly all of KZfaq video production creators are pumping out. Everyone sounds the same, opening up videos with the same welcome that everyone does....."Hey what's up guys.......blah blah blah" it all sounds super repetitive and annnoying. I think content creators need to start keeping things 100% real because we are all tired of the fake smiles, fake suggestions and fake personas. Keep it 100% like your doing bro, you just got a new subsriber for doing so.

Comparison is the theif of Joy my friend! I just started on youtube (not this account) and it has consumed me. I want my stuff to just even look as nice as yours and get views right away. But im stuck at like 12 subs and few views. Had to stop comparing and just make what i like. At least thats what im trying to do😂

My feed is overall less edgy than it used to be. The product review industry is part of that. KZfaq and the algorithm might not be rewarding and promoting edgy content. If you agree (or disagree) that it has gotten more conventional, I'd like to hear it. I can only say what my feed and the content that KZfaq suggests for it is like for me.

Lol yea man youtube is getting weird great content keep up the great work!!

Yeah I few you Brother makes sense everything u saying

Bro you salivating in the mic is driving me nuts but appreciate the free game

I feel KZfaq has reached a maturity like Facebook did many moons ago . For example I only really use Facebook for groups and events and have done for many years . I still watch KZfaq a lot but it’s more specific now and there are much less KZfaqrs I actually follow now. Probably less than 10 . I get excited about a new upload from Phillip bloom or Curtis Judd Because of the honesty, consistency and personality and also they are not needy. Whatch out for social needia that’s the real killer of all social platforms imo.

All these big KZfaqrs talking about how great certain products are and then never see them actually use the products that they will gladly recommend to us the viewers. How many of these creators are still using the insta360 go 3 or the DJI pocket 3, etc? None of them

Loved the Video and hearing your thoughts on everything man. Subbed ✊🏽

Facts Instantly subscribed ⚡️🙏🏼

Be the inspiration!

Bro I’ve watched videos of KZfaqrs “reviewing” a phone that according to them, they’ve “tested” for however long, and literally they’ll open an app and the phone prompts them to give them permission to send notifications or what not. It’s clear that they are lying. And yes, it’s the big channels with lots of followers

bro speaks truth

The fact that you peeped that he was sitting in front of the Apple monitor made me giggle because facts

Dope perspective of shooting, great vibe and tone.

FACTSSSS but hey i see it as out with the old and in with the new!! we taking overrrr

Have you ever thought about doing video reviews on products you already own on amazon? The amazon influencer program (not affiliates, its totally different) is a gold mine and buyers value people who keep it real and give their honest opinions

Great video man , love it and subscribing to your channel for more

Remember that the people watching you might not give AF about the people you watch. Keep doing you fam!

I think a lot of creators have a video that hits, then try to replicate it and start making everything for the algorithm. They forgot what they came here for and end up having to make videos that they don’t want to make to feed the beast. That cycle will make anybody quit eventually. Great video bro!

Good honest video. KZfaq content creation is over saturated and many are being payed for a bought by manufacturers. I commend people for making videos, though I hope that creators realize you are essentially salespeople for KZfaq. You may be creating your own content but you are basically selling KZfaqs product which is KZfaq. There should be full disclosure when making a video about how you got the product and which product you currently use. Many reviewers may say that “ Samsung” etc, didn’t tell me what to say…but let’s be honest if you want to continue to get items to review from a manufacturer your going to more times than not have to give the product a good review and so the review will be biased.

I say do the S24 Ultra review. I watch a lot of tech reviews but have moved away from the big youtubers. I got tired of the testing being pretty controlled and photos from only their studio space. Also all the real world tests aren't very "real world" since they're only for a day of using as their primary phone and then go back to their iPhones.

Like me, you are a small channel. The best you can do is the best you can do. I think you would be best to do your reviews a little differently than the other guys. They all started out where we are and have earned the right to get products early.

Totally agree

Totally... can't trust KZfaq creators (in general) anymore. There's a few who're still objective, but so.... so many are shilling. Pete, the guy who inspired me to go for it, lost me when he shilled the R5 for video.

Nice RAW talks! I totaly agree. Just make the video, I dont like the tech video’s from the big creators just because I know they dont really use the product, but just want to make a video for the views. Do what you love to do!👊🏼

I definitely agree with this video. I think it's hard for people that make content to be relatable but also not take what they do for granted. Like if one of these popular creators, is like damn I hate doing gear videos they aren't fun anymore, but then continues to do them... its like I get this is your job, but why even tell us? lol but then also its like okay I get it, I work a "regular job" and im tired of doing it but I still do lol. Its tough, KZfaq is really the only place for long form content. I just think we gotta eventually change the channel, per se, to people that are making videos for the fun. You mentioned Vuhlandes, and ive been watching this dude since like 2016, and even though the things changed, he's still human and get burnout, I still like his content and his reviews and stuff. I feel like before photography KZfaq felt forced, like we had to watch certain people because its all photographers had... now? ha we don't have to watch any of em. there's always someone for someone haha. Honestly how I found your channel. was tired of watching wack gear reviews, so I watched yours on Sony lenses. haha

I agree that most of those individuals said this is their dream job, well act like it! Cuz it's people that want to do what they're doing. I trying to be where they are at in life shiiiiidddddd

Facts ma G

Bro MJ couldn’t play ball 🏀 forever

You sold the canon r3? Is the a7iv the better camera?

Bro you are definitely speaking facts

Really enjoyed your video style

Marvel movies suck because they turned into chick flicks

3:09 maybe that’s the goal? I feel like competition on KZfaq is crazy and people are tired of the flash scenes and crazy B-roll and these talking heads are what more people want. I’d rather have your actual info that is direct and to the point instead of all the extra nonsense you get with Peter McKinnon and those guys. Their shit is exhausting…

Love the video.. But switch the mic man that smacking and hearing everything in your mouth, pause, is annoying as hell. Subscribed tho

You're wrong about the Scorsese Marvel thing, the superhero fatigue is real. Plus, MCU hasn't been very good for a while now.

I hate the word GAME CHANGER with a passion. Because something else will come out and that creator will say GAME CHANGER again. Come on man. I'll give you an honest review on an item and if I like it, I'll tell you and if I don't, I'll tell you. The embargo thing pisses me off as well because I have to wait longer that most due to me living overseas (military) and places overseas do not get items right away. I had to get my OSMO Pocket 3 when I was in Cali on vacation.

I think it’s just like any other job. It gets old and repetitive when you do it so much.

Ima be honest with you... Being a Content Creator gets boring af man.. In the beginning i was excited. I chased views i chased subs i chased everything and it just wasnt worth it to me. People care about things that creators dont care about in my opinion.. Creators try to switch to making videos about nothing but gear because those get the views but a lot of creators dont care about gear... its stressful.

Nice video man and very valid point. I started making tech-related videos 10+ years ago and I remember when a new product would be released and it was a race to get the first videos up - regardless of channel size, clout or connections. Also, love the lo-fi simple vibes. I try to do that more but my editing ADHD takes over and next thing you know I have 986896849832 cuts.

Peter Mckinon was a major sell out , his ND filter is so shit ... lost all respect for him .

When you’ve made 800+ videos on KZfaq, you’ll feel like you wanna do something different! I love making videos, but making videos for the sake of hustling, nah. I’ve been a part of the embargo “group”, but honestly, it hasn’t mattered at all lately. It sounds to me like you’re envying the position these creators have worked so hard for to reach. I was in this EXACT position, with these EXACT, thoughts when I started bro 🫡. Good thoughts, Keep at it!

Burnout is a real thing. Making videos fills a void in the Creator's life. But when the expectations and the stress catches up with you, you just want to hit pause on all that shit and just go do something else that's free and not dependant on deadlines. I like your video by the way G