No more giveaways!

Unfortunately do to some people who take advantage of my generosity I will be suspending any further camera gear giveaways. So if you are following me only because you want to get some free stuff then you might as well unfollow.

Over the years I’ve given away cameras, lenses and gimbals, etc to needy filmmakers that varied in prices from $200 to several thousands. Since then I’ve also found out that some of the prizes went to people who own RED cameras or other expensive gear. People who definitely don’t need the free stuff. I’ve also had too many people signing up multiple times under fake names to better their chances. Whatever!

However, the final thing that made me reach this decision is the few people who won the giveaways and then complained that they had to cover the shipping cost and their countries ridiculous taxes. In the last case the item is still stuck somewhere in customs office while the “winner” is angry at me because they had to pay the shipping and now they refuse to pay the duties. I think if (and that is a big if) I do any further giveaways it will only be to open to people within the USA… even though I realize that there are many people outside of the USA that probably need this stuff more. Unfortunately arranging and doing these giveaways is too time consuming and I can’t be spending more time worrying about how much in shipping or taxes your country is going to charge you. If you can’t cover those costs then I understand but please do everyone a favor and find out before you apply and make me send the package your way.

I’ve had 2 other times before where I stopped doing giveaways or contests because of similar reasons or because people complained that my contest “rules” were unfair. This time I thought I would make it as simple as it can be. No rules and no requirements but I see even that is impossible in a world where many “filmmakers” are all about acquiring more gear and showing it off on social media to make them selves look like they’re “successful” instead of actually concentrating on bettering their skills and making art.

To the rest of you who don’t just follow me for free stuff and are actually interested in producing content, I applaud you. Keep on smiling and keep on creating!

7 thoughts on “No more giveaways!”

  1. Sounds like you’ve encountered several ‘bell ends’ as we say here in the UK. What a shame. Keep up the top work!

  2. Hi Tom,
    well that’s a shame. Not that you’re stopping the giveaways but that people are the way they are. It’s true sir many “filmmakers” unfortunately
    in this social media generation sure love to collect gear, pose, and shoot pics of themselves all day long. When asked to see some of their work…crickets.
    Well keep up the great work that you do Tom!
    I appreciate all you do.

    – Carlos Diaz

  3. Tom, I have been following you on YouTube now for about 2 years. And I have to say I absolutely love your Channel and thank you so much for all the information that you share. I am a professional photographer here in New Jersey but I’m very much an amateur when it comes to cinematic video. I just recently purchased the black magic pocket Cinema 6K. I always look forward to your videos and read your blog as well. I never really paid too much attention to your giveaways although I think they’re a great thing. With that said I can fully understand your frustration, I would think I would feel exactly the same as you when it comes to giving away gear to people who absolutely don’t need it. Sadly there are many people in this world but like to cheat no matter what it is. I guess it is just one of the sad realities of life but keep in mind there are many good realities to life as well. I know that you know this and I know that you have a kind heart. Just keep fighting the good fight and know that you have a lot of good fans out here that really love your work.

    Rich

  4. I was following you after finding your videos on YouTube. had no clue you where doing free giveaways. Most people groups set up giveaways through Patreon.
    i subscribed to your newsletter to get the latest news.

  5. Hi Tom,
    So sorry to hear about the troubles with giveaways and prizes etc.

    I have been following your posts for years now and you really are one of the ones creating quality content for which you should be applauded.

    Keep up the good work and don’t let the idiots get you down!

  6. You do a great job passing on tips and tricks and real world parts that work. We all really appreciate what you do for us and screw the leeches!

Leave a Reply to Tom AntosCancel reply