Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

Mike Kovaliv
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  • Visual Arts

The official Podcast of Mike Kovaliv, where you'll find expert insights on photography, music, and thought-provoking discussions on the creative process. With over 20 years of experience as a professional photographer, Mike shares his extensive knowledge on all aspects of the craft. This Podcast is your go-to resource for:     • Camera gear reviews (cameras, lenses, accessories)    • Photography techniques and tutorials    • Creativity and art in visual storytelling    • Photo editing and post-processing tips    • Building a photography businessWhether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your photography journey, subscribe now to learn how to capture better images and develop your artistic vision. Join the community and get the knowledge you need to succeed in photography!

  1. 1d ago

    Canon T3i 600D DSLR - Best first camera in 2026?

    Canon T3i in 2026: Still the Best Budget DSLR for Beginners? Full Review + Honest Thoughts Thinking about buying a Canon T3i (Rebel T3i / EOS 600D) in 2026? In this video I revisit one of my very first cameras and show you exactly why this 18MP APS-C DSLR is still an incredible value for new photographers and hobbyists. I started on a Nikon D40, switched to Canon because of lenses, and the T3i was the body that really got me hooked. Years later it still holds up as a fantastic entry-level camera — especially when you can grab one for $100–$200 used here in Canada. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro & My Personal Story with the Canon T3i 0:59 2026 Used Prices & Why It’s Still a Steal 1:31 Ergonomics, Handling & Canon’s Signature Feel 2:12 Top Dial, Controls & Button Layout Explained 2:59 Vari-Angle Flip Screen (Best Feature?) 3:48 1080p Video Specs, Mic Input & Limitations 4:16 Autofocus, Viewfinder & Built-in Flash 5:23 Canon Menu System & Quick Menu Tips 6:30 Battery Life, SD Cards & Connectivity 7:42 The #1 Reason to Buy: Canon EF Lens Ecosystem 8:58 EF vs EF-S Lenses (Future-Proof Your Kit!) 9:38 Image Quality in 2026 – Daylight vs Low Light 10:32 Better Option? Canon 6D Full-Frame Comparison 11:48 Final Verdict – Who Should Buy the T3i in 2026? Whether this is your first DSLR or you need a cheap backup body, the T3i gives you comfortable handling, a flip-out screen, solid stills, and full access to the huge Canon EF lens system (including the legendary nifty-fifty 50mm f/1.8). Pros: Extremely affordable in 2026 Super comfortable ergonomics Vari-angle screen + mic input Massive cheap lens selection Easy-to-use menu system Cons: Small optical viewfinder Dated low-light performance (ISO 3200 max recommended) No 4K video If you’re just getting started or want to jump into the Canon system without spending a fortune, the T3i is still one of the smartest buys in 2026.  Comment below: Would you buy a Canon T3i right now? Also drop a comment if you want a full menu settings deep-dive video!  Like the video if it helped, subscribe for more beginner-friendly camera reviews, gear guides, and photography tips, and hit the bell so you never miss an upload. Support the channel: Join as a member or buy me a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ Need a great value lens? Save an extra 10% https://ttartisan.store/?ref=MikeKovaliv #CanonT3i #CanonRebelT3i #EOS600D #BudgetDSLR #BeginnerPhotography #CanonEFMount #DSLR2026 #FirstCamera #PhotographyGear #CanonReview

    13 min

  2. May 6

    Learning Photography - The Basics of Aperture

    In this beginner-friendly photography tutorial, we dive deep into aperture — one of the most important and creative controls on your camera. Learn exactly how aperture works, what those f-numbers mean (f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, etc.), and how changing the aperture gives you powerful control over depth of field. Support the channel: Join as a member or buy me a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ Need a great value lens? Save an extra 10% https://ttartisan.store/?ref=MikeKovaliv You'll discover: Why smaller numbers = bigger lens opening (more light + blurrier background) How to shoot in Aperture Priority mode The creative difference between wide apertures (dreamy, isolated subjects) and narrow apertures (sharp landscapes) Real side-by-side examples showing the same shot at different f-stops When to use each setting for portraits, landscapes, and more Perfect for beginners who want to move beyond Auto mode and start creating better photos. Recommended Gear: A 50mm prime lens is mentioned as an excellent budget option for achieving beautiful background blur. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Aperture 00:15 Quick Review of Camera Basics 01:05 Setting Up Aperture Priority (Auto ISO) 01:37 Understanding f-stops & Full Stops 03:23 Side-by-Side Aperture Comparison 03:39 f/4 Example 04:11 f/5.6 Example 04:37 f/8 Example 04:54 f/2.8 & f/2 Examples (Maximum Blur) 05:58 Creative Applications (Landscapes vs Portraits) 06:50 Experiment & Practice Tips 07:21 Kit Lens Limitations & 50mm Lens Recommendation If you're just starting out with photography, understanding aperture is one of the best first steps you can take. Drop a comment with your favorite aperture setting or what type of photography you're into! 👍 Like if this helped! 🔔 Subscribe for more beginner photography tutorials Thanks for watching! #photographyforbeginners  #CameraSetup #FirstCamera #MirrorlessTutorial #DSLRTutorial #ExposureTriangle #AperturePriority #Basicsofphotography #BeginnerPhotography #PhotographyTips #MikeKovaliv

    8 min

  3. May 1

    Learning Photography - Setting Up Your First Camera

    Ready to finally move beyond your phone and take full control of your photography? In this beginner camera setup tutorial, professional photographer Mike Kovaliv (20 years experience) walks you step-by-step through unboxing and setting up your very first camera — whether it's a mirrorless, DSLR, or fixed-lens model like the Fuji X100. Perfect for complete beginners who just picked up their first interchangeable-lens camera or are upgrading from smartphone photography. What you’ll learn in this video: • Charging the battery & inserting/formatting your memory card • Factory reset (new or used camera) • Adjusting the diopter for sharp viewfinder focus • JPEG vs RAW explained (and which to use as a beginner) • The Exposure Triangle made simple (Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO) • Why Aperture Priority mode is the best starting point • How to actually take your first photo with confidence This is Video 1 of a complete beginner photography series that takes you all the way from basic setup to advanced creative techniques like portraiture, lighting & flash, and turning your vision into real images. Timestamps: 0:00 – Welcome to the Photography Series 0:48 – What This First Video Covers 1:52 – Battery & Memory Card Setup 2:47 – Formatting the Memory Card 3:33 – Factory Reset (New or Used Camera) 4:58 – Adjust Diopter for Sharp Viewfinder 6:46 – JPEG vs RAW – Which Should You Shoot? 9:46 – Camera Modes & The Exposure Triangle Basics 11:07 – Aperture Explained (How Much Light) 11:58 – Shutter Speed Explained (How Long Light) 12:52 – ISO Explained (Sensor Sensitivity) 14:44 – Why Start in Aperture Priority Mode 16:54 – Recommended Starting Aperture (f/4–f/5.6) 18:08 – The Shutter Button (Wake Up + Take Photo) 20:50 – What’s Coming in the Next Videos 21:04 – Thank You + Support the Channel If you’re tired of auto mode and want more control and creativity with your camera, this series is made for you. Like if this helped!  Subscribe and hit the bell for the full beginner photography series  Support the channel: Join as a member or buy me a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ Need a great value lens? Save an extra 10% https://ttartisan.store/?ref=MikeKovaliv #photographyforbeginners  #CameraSetup #FirstCamera #MirrorlessTutorial #DSLTutorial #ExposureTriangle #AperturePriority #JPEGvsRAW #BeginnerPhotography #PhotographyTips #MikeKovaliv

    21 min

  4. Apr 24

    TTArtisan 56mm 1.8 APS-C | The ideal portrait lens? | Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

    Buy the lens here: https://ttartisan.store/?ref=MikeKovaliv Choosing the right portrait lens for your APS-C mirrorless camera just got a lot easier — and more affordable. In this review, I test the TTArtisan 56mm f/1.8 Autofocus lens on the Nikon Z6 (in crop mode) and share my honest thoughts after a full month of shooting. This budget-friendly 56mm f/1.8 delivers the classic 85mm full-frame equivalent portrait view, excellent sharpness, smooth bokeh, and surprisingly fast & accurate autofocus that rivals much more expensive native lenses. Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ 🔥 Why You’ll Love This Lens: • Sharp wide open at f/1.8 with beautiful subject separation • Fast, reliable autofocus — great for portraits & everyday shooting • Solid metal mount + premium build quality • Lightweight metal lens hood + USB-C firmware updates • 52mm filter thread • Available for Sony E, Fuji X, and Nikon Z At just $140–$150 CAD, the TTArtisan 56mm f/1.8 offers incredible value compared to first-party options that cost 4–5x more. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro 00:37 Unboxing & What's in the Box 01:17 Build Quality & Design 02:28 Lens Hood & Rear Cap (USB-C) 03:26 Handling & Focus Ring 04:21 Price Comparison 05:47 Image Quality & Autofocus Performance 07:26 Bokeh & Portrait Samples 09:18 Final Thoughts If you're looking for a sharp, fast, and affordable portrait lens for Fuji, Sony, Nikon Z, or other APS-C mirrorless systems, this TTArtisan is hard to beat. 👉 Grab the TTArtisan 56mm f/1.8 here (affiliate link - helps support the channel at no extra cost to you): [https://ttartisan.store/?ref=MikeKovaliv] Thanks to TTArtisan for sending the lens for review! 📸 Follow for more honest gear reviews, sample photos & real-world tests. #TTArtisan #56mmf18 #TTArtisan56mm #NikonZ #FujiX #SonyE #PortraitLens #BudgetPhotography #MirrorlessLens #APSCLens #PhotographyGear

    11 min

  5. Apr 15

    Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Review - A Great Value Mirrorless Camera? | Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

    Is the Nikon Z6 still worth buying in 2026? In this honest review, I share why this original full-frame mirrorless camera remains an excellent choice — especially as a second body or affordable entry into the Nikon Z system — even years after its release. Whether you're a DSLR shooter (like me with my Nikon D750) thinking about adding mirrorless, or a beginner looking for a pro-level full-frame camera on a budget, the Z6 delivers superb image quality, in-body stabilization, silent shooting, and solid ergonomics that feel right at home for Nikon users. Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ ### What I cover in this video: - Real-world ergonomics: How the Z6 compares to the D750 in hand feel, button layout, grip, and dials - IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) benefits for stills and video - Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) vs optical viewfinder — the pros and cons - Nikon Z mount + FTZ adapter: Using your existing F-mount DSLR lenses seamlessly - Why I love adapting Leica M-mount lenses on the Z6 - Silent shutter for events, weddings, church gigs, and discreet photography - Autofocus performance for everyday shooting (portraits, events, travel) - Image quality, low-light performance, and how it stacks up against newer Z6 II / Z6 III models - Current used market value in 2026 — why it's still a fantastic deal The Nikon Z6 (first generation) offers 24.5MP full-frame goodness with image quality very close to my D750. It's compact yet built like a tank, with excellent color science and that classic Nikon handling. While newer models bring faster AF and more video features, the core experience hasn't changed dramatically — making this a smart buy if you're not chasing the latest specs. Timestamps: 00:00 - Why I still shoot DSLR but added mirrorless 01:05 - Introducing the Nikon Z6 in my kit 02:01 - Ergonomics & build quality comparison (vs D750) 05:45 - In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) advantages 07:08 - Electronic Viewfinder experience 08:45 - Z mount, FTZ adapter & adapted lenses (including Leica M) 10:57 - Silent shooting for events & professional work 11:58 - Is the Nikon Z6 worth it in 2026? Value & pricing 14:59 - Final thoughts & using both DSLR + mirrorless together If you're a Nikon photographer transitioning from DSLR or hunting for a capable used full-frame mirrorless under $1,000–$1,200, this video will help you decide. 👍 Like if you're team DSLR, mirrorless, or both! 🔔 Subscribe for more real-world Nikon photography gear reviews, tips, and comparisons. Support the channel: Join as a member or use YouTube's "Thanks" feature — every bit helps keep these videos coming! Gear mentioned: Nikon D750, Nikon Z6, FTZ adapter, various F-mount and adapted lenses. #NikonZ6 #NikonZ6Review #MirrorlessVsDSLR #NikonPhotography #FullFrameMirrorless #UsedCamera2026 #NikonZMount #PhotographyGear Chapters/Timestamps above help you jump to the sections you care about most. Thanks for listening — see you in the next one!

    16 min

  6. Apr 13

    YouTube vs Rumble - Starting a Photography Channel | Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

    In this honest update, I share my real 4-month experience running a new photography channel on both YouTube and Rumble simultaneously. YouTube has been amazing — closing in on 150,000 views and 2,500 subscribers — but Rumble has been a completely different story with almost no views or search visibility. My channel focuses on photography and gear reviews covering DSLR and Mirrorless cameras, lenses and accessories. I dive into: Why I chose to post on both platforms The massive view difference (e.g., 56K on YouTube vs. 14 on Rumble for the same video) My attempts at proper Rumble SEO (titles, descriptions, etc.) Searching for my channel name "Mike Kovaliv" or videos like "Back to DSLR" or "The 50mm lens" — and finding NOTHING on Rumble Multiple unanswered emails to Rumble support Whether cross-posting to Rumble hurts YouTube growth (spoiler: I don't think so) Tips for new creators considering multi-platform strategies If you're a beginner creator thinking about YouTube vs Rumble, dealing with low discoverability on Rumble, or wondering how to grow on alternative platforms in 2026, this video is for you. I'm not bashing Rumble — I like the platform and its focus on free speech — but the search/indexing issues are frustrating. Have you had similar experiences on Rumble? Drop your advice in the comments — how to improve discoverability, what actually works for SEO there, or if I might be missing something obvious. I'd love feedback from other creators! Timestamps: 0:00 - Why I chose YouTube + Rumble for my photography channel 0:32 - My growth stats: YouTube success vs Rumble struggles 1:09 - Stark view differences and checking my Rumble page 1:54 - Testing Rumble SEO and search visibility 2:23 - Searching my name/channel — nothing shows up 3:32 - Contacting Rumble support (multiple times, no reply) 4:36 - Still invisible after 4 months (examples: "Mike Kovaliv", "Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv") 5:50 - Does being on both platforms hurt YouTube? 6:44 - Asking for your help and advice! 7:36 - Thanks for the support — update coming later Subscribe for more photography tips, gear reviews (DSLR comebacks, lenses like 50mm), channel growth updates, and platform experiments! Hit the bell 🔔 so you don't miss the next one. Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ Photography | Gear | Creator Journey #YouTubeVsRumble #RumbleSEO #PhotographyChannel #CreatorTips #MultiPlatform #RumbleDiscoverability #YouTubeGrowth #NewCreatorAdvice Thanks for listening — see you in the next episode! 🚀

    8 min

  7. Mar 16

    28mm Prime - The Best Street Photography Lens? Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

    Why the 28mm lens might be the perfect wide-angle for you — even if it didn't click at first. In this video, I share my personal evolution with the 28mm focal length. I started photography heavily focused on 50mm and 35mm primes (with 85mm and 105mm for portraits), and the 35mm never quite connected for me. Wider needs? I'd grab a zoom. But about 5-6 years ago, seeing the popularity of 28mm in cameras like the Leica Q and Ricoh GR made me reconsider. I picked up the classic Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AIS — a beautifully built manual focus lens with metal construction, silky smooth focus ring, satisfying aperture clicks, and that traditional manual control feel I love. On my Nikon D750 (full-frame), it's native 28mm; on APS-C it gives a natural ~42mm equivalent view. Key things I love about this lens: Solid, premium build quality — wish Nikon still made them like this Excellent manual controls: damped focus ring, clicky aperture ring you can see and feel f/2.8 is the sweet spot — compact, plenty of light, great depth of field for street and environmental shots Super close focusing (great perspective and detail up close without crazy distortion) Natural rendering: minimal distortion, elegant fall-off, classic character (especially in black & white) Hyperfocal magic for zone focusing on the street — set it and forget it Sharp enough for modern standards, but it's about the feeling and inspiration, not pixel-peeping I took it on a photo walk (park + downtown) and share real-world shots from that day. This focal length strikes a perfect balance: wide enough for storytelling and context, but not so wide it feels gimmicky. It's become one of my top 3 primes alongside the 50mm — a true workhorse for personal projects and paid work. Whether you're into street photography, environmental portraits, or just want a fun, inspiring lens that feels classic on a modern mirrorless body, give the 28mm a try. Focal lengths are personal — what didn't work for me years ago now resonates deeply. If you're enjoying these lens deep-dives and photography chats, hit LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE for more, and turn on notifications! Support the channel: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv ☕ Check out my other videos on primes, vintage glass, and real-world shooting. Timestamps: 0:00 - Why 28mm polarizes photographers 0:15 - My early days with 35mm & 50mm 1:18 - What made me try 28mm 1:49 - Introducing the Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AIS 2:01 - Build, feel, and manual controls 3:28 - Why f/2.8 is perfect here 4:23 - Close focus & natural perspective 4:55 - Street photography advantages & hyperfocal 5:26 - Photo walk samples 6:27 - Character & black & white magic 7:19 - It's about the feeling 8:56 - Final thoughts & recommendation Shot mostly on Nikon D750 + Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AIS. #Nikkor28mm #28mmLens #ManualFocus #NikonPhotography #StreetPhotography #VintageLens #PrimeLens #PhotographyGear #BlackAndWhitePhotography #nikond750 Thanks for watching — see you in the next one! Mike Kovaliv

    10 min

  8. Mar 16

    NEEWER LT39 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod Review | Uncommon Sense with Mike Kovaliv

    Tired of lugging around a heavy, outdated tripod? 📸 https://buymeacoffee.com/mikekovaliv Is this the best value travel tripod for Mirrorless or DSLR cameras in 2026? In this video, I’m reviewing the NEEWER LT39 Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod. After using the same tripod for 15 years, I finally decided to see how modern gear compares—and I was honestly shocked. Weighing in at just 2.49 lbs, this compact powerhouse is lighter than some of the tripod heads I used to use, yet it doesn’t compromise on stability or rigidity. Whether you're a professional looking for a portable b-roll setup or a travel photographer needing something sleek and sturdy, the LT39 might be the perfect fit. 🔥 Key Features Covered: Ultra-Lightweight: Carbon fiber build at only 2.49 lbs. Extreme Portability: Folds down to less than 20 inches (with the ball head attached!). Build Quality: No "slop" or wiggle—just precision engineering and a high-end "champagne" finish. Low-Angle Shooting: Swapping the center console for the included short column. Bonus Accessories: A look at the heavy-duty phone mount, the 360° dampened panorama head, and the premium travel bag. Check out the Neewer LT39 here: https://ca.neewer.com/collections/tripods/products/neewer-lt39-61-carbon-fiber-travel-tripod-66608326 #Neewer #TravelTripod #PhotographyGear #CarbonFiberTripod #CameraAccessories #ContentCreator #NeewerLT39 #TripodReview

    15 min
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About

The official Podcast of Mike Kovaliv, where you'll find expert insights on photography, music, and thought-provoking discussions on the creative process. With over 20 years of experience as a professional photographer, Mike shares his extensive knowledge on all aspects of the craft. This Podcast is your go-to resource for:     • Camera gear reviews (cameras, lenses, accessories)    • Photography techniques and tutorials    • Creativity and art in visual storytelling    • Photo editing and post-processing tips    • Building a photography businessWhether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your photography journey, subscribe now to learn how to capture better images and develop your artistic vision. Join the community and get the knowledge you need to succeed in photography!

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