GH2 ~$3000 to spend, what to get for a newbie?

J

JChang

Active member
Hey fellow GH Users. I was suppose to get a FS100 earlier in the year but saw a drop in financials. Have decided to go with the GH2. I am coming from a Pentax K-X with a lot of older lens. I wanted to know what I can/should get with my budget. I am still very new and have just started recently.


After buying a GH2 I would be seated around ~$2200. What are everyone's recommendation?

Just thoughts that have been going through my mind -

Steadicam Merlin?
Voigtlander 25mm f0.95?
- other lens? Something wider preferably?
DP6/ External monitor?
Shoulder mount?
Follow Focus?

Is a DP6/ external monitor needed? I find the Focus Assist and False Color really helpful for me but am not sure if it is something i should be getting with my initial budget.

I love the look of the steadicam (floating feel) which is why I am thinking about that over the Shoulder Mount.

Is there anything else I might be missing? I already have a tripod (Libec) and longer length lens, on Pentax of course.

Any advice and recommendations would be very helpful! Thank you!
 
If you are new to the DSLR world I recommend that you save the cash, don't buy anything for now. Get the camera and use it on some quick projects. Find out what annoys you about the camera and buy what you need.

Stuff I would buy if I already had what you mentioned.
ND filters buy 77mm get ND8 ND64, skip the ND2 you will never use it. Maybe a ND4. Buy top shelf stuff DONT GO CHEAP HERE you will regret it. - Step up rings-
Polarizer also 77mm
20mm F1.7 panasonic pancake. (because its the best native m43 lens for the $$$)
External audio gear, mics ect....
Lights
Don't forget the gels it adds up quick.


Don't buy-
FF don't get it unless you really need it, which for me is never. But YMMV.
Voigtlander 25mm F0.95 (too expensive if you only have a 2k budget)
External monitor can be a powerful tool but the good ones will cost $800 which would push you out of your initaial budget.

Maybe-
Shoulder mount is a lot of help if you are doing a lot of handheld.
Wide Angle lens. The 14mm Panasonic will work with your budget.

All of this matters for me but that is not to say its the same for you.
 
I agree with Bitcrusher's advice, but I would also look at the Panasonic 25mm f/1.4 lens as an alternative to the 20mm f/1.7. The cost difference between these two lenses is about $200.
 
Thanks for the advice. I already have some audio equipment to help ease the cost.

I had totally forgot about Filters. Is there any brand recommendation you could recommend?
I will try on getting some native lens for the GH2 instead.

I am still on edge of whether i should get a shoulder mount or a stabilizer as my first choice if I do decide to get one.
 
JChang said:
Thanks for the advice. I already have some audio equipment to help ease the cost.

I had totally forgot about Filters. Is there any brand recommendation you could recommend?
I will try on getting some native lens for the GH2 instead.

I am still on edge of whether i should get a shoulder mount or a stabilizer as my first choice if I do decide to get one.
Click to expand...

For NDs I have had good luck with B+W which is made by a company called Schneider Optics.

I like shoulder mounts personally as it can take a while to balance a DSLR on a stabilizer. Also unless you have a vest its not something you want to be doing all day long. But they are really 2 deferent tools for deferent jobs. My first choice is always a tripod.

Oh ya get some extra batteries. I will use 4 on a full day shoot. So get 6 or 8.
 
i have the gh2 and the voighlander 25 and recently got the merlin steadicam - man..... after 2 weeks struggling to get it balanced I had to return it - bought the slidecam hd 1000 had it balanced in 1/2 hour - my 2 cents - the merlin is a tricky piece of equipment. the voighlander..... a lot of money - lots of times i wish i had a good fast tele....
 
I have to reiterate getting a good ND filter. I went cheap here twice and ended up with footage with horrible color casts and blurriness at longer focal lengths. For variable NDs, I'd go straight for Singh-ray or Heliopan.
 
If i were you i wouldn't buy Pancake 20mm f1.7, because it has really ugly bokeh.

Buy Takumar SMC 50mm f1.4 + m42 adapter and Tamron 17-50 f2.8 + adapter (canon, nikon, olympus...).
Do you have tripods? No? Buy something like Benro KH25 and Velbon C600.
Dont forget to buy slider (homemade are really cheap).

External monitor is nice, but if you dont have money, dont buy it. Its not necessary thing.
Follow focus is nice, but if you dont have money, dont buy it. Its not necessary thing.

Don't buy shoulder mount, i think it's worthless for GH2. Buy an little tripod for run and gun shoting.
ND filters are nice so buy them.

And dont forget to buy something like Zoom 1 + boompole + rodevideomic. :)
For hack i think 50mbps is enough for work, so sd cards class 6 are ok. And an extra battery would be nice. :)
 
Here's what I take on just about every shoot:

Extra batteries (spring for the Panasonic brand). Each lasts 30-120 minutes depending on use, so get enough to cover a typical shoot day for you.
AC power adapter
Transcend Class 10 cards... best bang-per-buck. While they don't work reliably with super-high bitrate hacks (Driftwood 176M, Quant V5), they work fine with everything up to about "TerraQuake" levels... and, of course, with every other midrate to stock level setting.
Fotodiox lens adapters (again, best BPB)
Any kind of audio solution (Zoom, Tascam, whatever plus a good set of ear cans and a wired or wireless lav mic and shotgun). Budget at least $1000 for this part alone. If you work with a sound man, maybe just get a Rode vidmic pro and call it a day.
Gorillapod. Inexpensive and super useful for shooting handheld. Provides a lot more stabilization than you might think.
Lumix 14-140. "Slow," but has great range, IQ, and OIS for times when you'd rather not futz with lens changes
Leica DG 25/1.4. IMO, better images than the Voigt if you can overlook the -by-wire controls
Canon WD58 0.7x wide angle converter. Combine with above to yield a kickass fast/wide lens
Any flavor garage sale fast 50
A good variable ND of whatever brand you prefer

That essentially exhausts your budget, but should cover most situations.
 
Not sure what you'll be shooting, or even your style.
However, I do event videography for pay. And I use a shoulder rig (Gin Rig on Ebay are great value), I have a steady Cam... (Merlin is a beauty, but you can get away with one for $150).
Buy a few quick release plates so you can move your camera around from setup to setup.
Giottos MH621 Quick Release Adapter These work great for most needs.
Aside from that, a nice glide track can always help getting detail shots. But i've seen people using Jibs almost as effectively, and they go for almost the same price, but do a hell of a lot more bang for the buck.
Supplies are essential, Cards, Batteries, Lights, filters (although i just use a simple Variable ND filter)...
Lenses, well that all depends on what you already have, what you want to shoot, and how much you want to spend.
Frankly, the Kit lens is a great "traveler" lens, sorta a do all lens. Not good at specifically anything, but always handy.
I use Nikon mostly on my GH2, since my wife is a fashion photographer... we can travel lighter using the same glass. (D3s)
Of course, when I have money ill spring for either the Olympus 12mm or the new Pana 25mm 1.4.
The 20mm i've heard NOTHING but praise for the optics, but I hear its slow to find focus and its loud and plastic feeling.
Frankly, with my follow focus setup. I use my Nikons 35mm f2, 50mm f1.4, or 85mm f1.4.
My Go To Setup:
Steady Cam, I usually just throw on my Kit lens because its nice and wide, offers O.I.S. and i can find my focus fast before I start filming. I place a light stand at my key spots, and I can put my steady cam on it, much like a tripod... then grab it and run without having to fiddle with anything else.
I film mostly events and weddings, I like to think my work is VERY high end and professional. But I know im not making a movie, so sometimes i dont focus on framing or preplanned shots... its more about living in the moment. Thats probably why I prefer using a steadycam over tripods and shoulder rigs... also my glass choices.
Here is an example of me, only using a SteadyCam.
http://vimeo.com/33852054
 
TheDingo said:
I agree with Bitcrusher's advice, but I would also look at the Panasonic 25mm f/1.4 lens as an alternative to the 20mm f/1.7. The cost difference between these two lenses is about $200.
Click to expand...

I took the Panasonic Leica 25mm f/1.4 over the 20mm f/1.7 and couldn't be happier. Definitely spring for an extra Panasonic battery and a nice, fast card that fits your needs. I think a stabilizer/DSLR riser is a good choice for anyone shooting on a GH2. One that attaches to your Libec will keep the camera at a more comfortable height. Shoulder mounts are great if you do a lot of handheld but most of my shooting (even prior to my GH2) is from a tripod or the occasional jib (both Libec btw).

I like using matte boxes for easy use of filters when needed and shading the lens but I don't use a follow focus that much. Probably because I shot video long before I ever shot a frame of film. But I do like them on the rare occasions when I use them. But as much as it might squeeze your budget, I think a monitor is a good early investment. Focus is critical in any HD video shooting. Unless you're going to lug a larger monitor on every shoot (which I do right now... Panasonic 17" LCD) then a small camera or rig mounted option is a good idea. But your eyes are probably better than mine.

Lastly, if you have good audio gear, I suggest you by some nice lighting gear. Brands and specific instruments are really a matter of choice but I think good monitoring, sound and lighting can go a long way. Probably (in my opinion) a lot further than a lot of the other bells, whistles and gizmos some DSLR shooters purchase.
 
So, I didn't get an answer so I will answer in advance. :)
If you are going to do this for a hobby, I would strongly suggest the GH2...Awesome camera for the price. If you are going to shoot action shots and sport shots..you would really have to get used to your camera..you would likely go with a REAL Camcorder (3 CCD) or you will get jello like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmnekecR74U .
Now if you are doing this for business, This is based on my experience..I have owned Canon and Panasonic DSLR's and when it came to Professional and experienced Directors/Producers HAVING to shoot with a DSLR...They will want 9 out of 10 times, the 5D Mark II or the Canon 7D. I know, The GH2 does have very,very nice footage...But that is my experience and I have dealt with a lot of them last year.
If I was in your shoes, I would probably wait and save up for the Sony FS100, I have my eye on it too..ever since I have seen some comparisons to other cameras, For the price...it's not bad. I have seen some sued ones go as low as $4500.
Good Luck!
 
Came home to many great replies! Thank you everyone who replied.

- Sorry JoeJITSU I could not reply earlier. I will most likely get the GH2 since it is only a hobby I am very much interested in right now. Though if I do find it as something I truly like, I am probably going to pursue it.

I find that I am shooting slower videos as of now. (Less movement) and more Drama like shorts as opposed to fast pace shots. I will also do some Event videography for my Father every once in a while.

- It seems like ND filters and batteries are on the top of the list so I will jump on those first.
- Would you guys recommend Variable ND's or multiple ND filters?
- I do however, have 3 Sandisk Ultra cards. Class 4 at 15Mb/sec. Are those fast enough for a higher end hack if I ever do decide to hack the GH2?
- I will also throw out the Voigtlander in favor of the Leica DG 25/1.4 and might grab a Wide Angle Converter if I find that my current lens are to long.
- Lens adapter for my Pentax lens is in the cart too.
- Already have audio supplies so that isnt needed.
- Daihard showed great examples of the look I love with his Steadicam so I will probably jump on for that, unless I decided that a slider or jib is a better choice.
 
It has been said already, but anyway: Buy quality only, as you´re in a comfortable budget situation.

When I started out, I bought what seemed like a good deal (india stuff, or even a 35mm adaptor that wasn´t letus but some other) and all it gave me was trouble. The last piece of junk I had left until a few days ago was a railblock from India, 3 years old. Now it´s gone and so are rails, nd filters, follow focus and many more. Good riddance.

Good filters are also: Heliopan and Hoya. The best fader ND today (from what I´ve read) I believe is made by one ore the other.

To save on a mattebox for now don´t forget to buy a 77mm sun hood. There are foldable ones that offer 3 stages for lenses from wide to tele. I like them.
 
JChang said:
- I do however, have 3 Sandisk Ultra cards. Class 4 at 15Mb/sec. Are those fast enough for a higher end hack if I ever do decide to hack the GH2?
Click to expand...

No sir, those won´t be fast enough. I believe Driftwood is cooking up a patch for class 6. But for anything near best quality you´ll need the 30MB/s Sandisks. For UberHighend patches and full funcionality even 95MB/s.


As for Merlin or not Merlin: to save a few I can recommend the Glidecams HD series. For GH2 only the HD1000 is enough. If you´re rigging up alot maybe the HD2000, which I have...and almost never use, although it´s a breeze to work with. But the lens situation makes it difficult to use. You can´t touch it to focus, auto-focus for video is fast on the GH2 but ... pumping still sucks.
 
Transcend 16 and 32G cards are CHEAP! Most of your average "Event" stuff, you will use these with a modest hack. For anything special, you probably are going to need a MUCH more expensive SanDisk card.
On a normal event, I usually use about 3-4 16g cards (I shoot MUCH more then i ever use, but its in the contract that I cover a load). I would invest in a few large 32g cards class 10.
JackBayer is right about investing in quality gear. However RESEARCH will save you TONS of money. Yes the Merlin, GlideCam, and Zukio stuff is great... but frankly I'm more then happy with my little Fly Cam for $120. I use little thing almost for an entire event (1 full day of shooting).
Its small, light, simple, and easy. But buy a quick release plate. The main difference with the expensive ones and the cheap ones, are that you can dial in the balance faster. But with a plate, you can PRE dial in your balance and never worry.
I bought a Gin rig..just received it a few days ago..and OMG! Im amazed at the quality! Freak'in amazing shoulder rig! all for $299 and came with a follow focus!
I cant wait to use it, but I tell ya... I think ill still be using the Fly Cam for most of my coverage.
My setup is very light, so my arm doesnt suffer too much...and using light stands can really help to rest your rig on while still shooting.
Mat boxes, high end filters, expensive monitors, etc... its all on the horizon for me.
But as a budget shooter with a newborn child... My priorities are for wide angle, fast glass, simple and portable power solutions, loads of cheap memory cards (I have an old netbook and offload my cards for really long shoots, then I can reuse them...before i shot an entire day with just 2 16g cards, also its harder and MUCH more expensive to buy gear in Hungary - 3x what it is in the US!)

Really, gear is secondary! Get the camera, learn how to use it effectively... Find a STABLE way to shoot with it! Then everything else will fall into place.
I have a few accessories other people have praised as the 1 item you have to have...and they are all collecting dust. - Borrow/rent - FIRST!
With good post production, adequate lighting, and sound. You can get away with shooting kit lens for most events. So DONT start going out of your way to buy expensive gear you may never use...
Memory cards, batteries, portable LED lighting, Steady Cam, and maybe a fluid head tripod...I think thats the only essential things you need to start with.
 
I think you got the transcend memory cards and NDs covered which is good since it's REALLY important, but I think this is some other stuff that could really help and doesnt even come close to breaking the bank. Here's basically what I did recently:

$150 - Gini rig (should support) : Can't be beat in my opinion, the build quality is like my Jag35 stuff but much cheaper

$279 - Manfrotto 561ZHDV-1 monopod : I've found monopods to be really amazing for moving and getting a stable shot and this one is awesome, it even comes with a $130 manfrotto 701HDV head which can be used in conjunction with another pair of legs if you need a tripod later.

$169 - Manfrotto 055XPROB Aluminum Tripod Legs (or equivalent) : This isnt essential but if you think you need a tripod.
OR
$69 - Pearstone VT-2100 tripod : This is a cheap alternative to quality Manfrotto gear but its the most legit option for the ch

$130 - Hague camera stabilizer : This is cheap and gets the job done well, was used to make Musgo
OR
$200 - Flycam Nano : This is another option, more pricey, but it a different build for heavier cameras and is a preference choice of the design the Merlin or Hague uses.
OR
$450 - Glidetrack HD2000 : I include this option becauseits what I'm personally going with, I like the build quality and feel paying the extra $$$ on this type of item might be worth it in the long run.

$40 - CN 160 LED lights - Cheap and bright but remember you need to buy the battery and charger separately.
OR
$90 - Z-96 : Another alternative to CN-100 or good to use them both together, again cheap, fast, bright light. Brighter than CN-160 but might not be worth the extra price.

$97 - Glidecam LCD viewfinder (or another nameless version of it) : This is a preference but I think its worth it for focus and another part of the camera attached to your body, plus it cancels the light out. But depending on what youre doing you might need an LCD.

$40 - Amazon SLR backpack : Works great and is cheap, also a canon version for around the same price.

$84 - 4ft Cineslider DIY : This is a REALLY great thing to have and its CHEAP if you do it yourself, which is VERY easy if you check that post. This can be used with your manfrotto 701HDV head from the monopod thats listed above. Great combo at an unbeatable price.
 
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