Advice needed on what to look at next with my video gear / videos / audio

M

MattyP

Member
Hi fellow users of dvx forum

Very quick intro into what I do, so hopefully it will help with any advice you can give me.

I'm a local newspaper photographer in Western Australia, and over the last few months I've been trying to do some video work on some of the jobs I attend to.

This is a link to the YouTube channel the videos are posted on: http://www.youtube.com/user/midlandeditorial
(comments and critique welcome)

I've had an interest in video for a long time, but not to the extent of going f/t into video or producing movies... (yet lol). However with that said, I hope I can significantly improve on the videos I've produced to date to bring it close to standard of that taken by say local news crews or f/t videojournalists. If it can be better that would be great but I got to crawl first before I can walk.

Below is some of the gear I'm currently running to produce what I do: (I have lots more, but this is specifically what I currently using for the videos I've made to date)
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Canon 5D Mk2, Canon 1D Mk4
Various L series zooms (16-35, 24-70, 70-200)
Manfrotto tripod, light and boom stands (soon to be video head hopefully provided by work)
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Video/Audio gear I currently have:
Rode NTG-2 shotgun mic + accessories (blimp, shock mounts etc)
Audio-Technica AT803B lavalier mic x 2 (only just got the second one)
Electro-Voice RE50N/D-B handheld mic
Various length Mogami XLR cable (1.5ft to 25ft)
Zoom H4n + accessories
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Using FCP, PluralEyes & iMovie to put the videos together (no extra software or plug-ins besides what is mentioned)

At the moment I feel the base equipment I have is a pretty good start with lots of room for improvement and add-ons. I hoping you guys will be able to help guide me in the right direction.

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RIGS
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I never thought I'd get one, however after doing a little bit of hand held stuff lately I can now see where it could be beneficial. I like the look of the Zacuto Cross Fire, though the price scares me a bit (though if it's a long term purchase then I its ok I guess). Cages look cool for low angle recording. I'm after an all-round rig that's easy to use and setup & doesn't cost the earth. I do have L-Series primes (14,15,35,85,100) that would suit the follow focus mechs.
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MONITORS vs VIEWFINDER
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The two probably have their own advantages. Personally I think a viewfinder may work better in my line of work (could be wrong), however the choice of monitor / viewfinder may come down to the rig that I end up getting. For my current stationary videos both monitor or viewfinder aren't needed, but when I start playing around with moving around a bit more I think I'll either have to get one or the other, or both. I've been watching videos online showing how each one works, but struggle to come to a conclusion on what would really be ideal.
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FIELD MIXER
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It seems anything Sound Devices is the go. Chad recommended the MixPre-D for my current use. Originally I was pretty firm on getting a 302, though I'm still open to thoughts and recommendations. Like anything here that I'm keen on eventually getting, I want to buy it right the first time. I'm starting to do some music recordings with the gf playing and singing behind the piano, and thinking multi mic setups around the place (eg. stereo mics divided between each end of the piano, and a large condensor for voice) Shot a video a couple weekends ago of her doing the above just using my NTG-2 and H4n mic (http://youtu.be/XobUTOWb4IM) (Behind the scenes shot of the setup - https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=20204436&l=1cb48eb981&id=852835178 )

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SOFTWARE
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I've been recommended Magic Bullet Looks, the "denoiser" from Red Giant and "Neat Video" http://www.neatvideo.com/ by fellow dvxuser/You Tuber ChadWork1. Any other software or plug-in recommendations that can aid in the quality, workflow, production of my videos? Chad pointed out my problem with left channel audio recordings on my H4n, so I hope I've fixed that up on some of my recent uploads to the work YouTube channel.

I think this is everything I need to ask at this current point of time, and I hope I've provided enough information for any advice and suggestions you guys may have.



Cheers

Matt
 
Hello from anohter 'snapper' wading in the world of video

I watched two of those vids, they seem of a high technical standard

I think just more shots and harder cutting and more practice shooting

For example with the dance one Id defo have opened with some music and feet

So if you dont have technical issues - you dont need more kit

If you have an LCDVF you wont need to power it

If you get a monitor or EVF you will introduce power issues into your supply chain

Id take it one step at a time - an LCDVF was m first purchase.. and a small rig

S
 
The Zacuto rig is definitely expensive, but it does include their $1k follow focus. Is their FF worth $1k? Haven't used it myself, so I can't comment on that.

In any case, I would definitely recommend testing out the gunstock on the Cross Fire because it may be comfortable to some but no others. Some people like something on their shoulder, others like something braced on their chest. What works for you can make a huge difference in comfort while shooting, so try as many options as you can before emptying your bank account.

Also, keep in mind that any handheld rig (especially gunstock and shoulder mounted rigs that use your body for stability) are meant for stabilization while standing still. Walking with these rigs is a completely different matter. Don't expect steadicam-esque shots while using a rig like the Cross Fire. Similar to an ENG or film cam, you can get smooth walking footage when using these types of rigs, but it will take a lot of practice and experience.

Zacuto isn't your only option either, though they do have some nice gear. I would highly recommend checking out Gini rigs (eBay). You'll be able to get a rig with a lot of different parts that you can build up into different configurations for well under $500. The quality is fantastic (and not just "for the price"). Look at the rig you ultimately get as a collection of components and think about the different ways you can configure it. You won't always need a shoulder pad, top handle, cage, chest brace, etc. The benefit of getting a full rig with a good amount of components (rods, clamps, etc.) is that you can reconfigure the system to be optimized for different situations. FYI, I picked up the K-5 Gini rig as that had pretty much everything I needed for the different types of shoots that I do.
 
I can't imagine shooting without the magnifier - focus being such an issue with DSLRs. Once you have one you'll never take it off.

I love my little Marshall monitor and it feels good knowing you're working with something calibrated. It's a necessity for cranes & crazy rigs of course, though a lilliput will do in a pinch. Marshall and others make small monitors that use the same batteries as many DSLRs. Marshall also makes one that runs on 4 AA's.

Look into a rail system with detachable handles and shoulder pieces - I find that pretty convenient. Cavision makes a lot of stuff that mounts to standard rails.

Also, a decent follow focus is a huge help with a DSLR. Even the cheap D|Focus I've found to be really solid. I keep a bunch of those spring-steel paper clip things in my case, they make perfect focus stops.
 
Thanks for the feedback so far...

My workplace I think plans on getting some of us a Genus Loup Viewfinder (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/733441-REG/Genus_GL_G_LV_Loupe_Viewfinder.html)
Even though it's rather basic I guess I could see how it goes and if it isn't up to scratch then I can look into something a bit better. I went to a dslr video workshop (which wasn't that crash, didn't learn much) and they recommended the Zacuto Z-Finder Pro purely for build.

So if a rig is really only good when stationary, then a stedicam would be the better option for me to look into first if I'm using a tripod for most of my stationary shots?
If I'm using a stedicam am I able to use / or require a follow focus mechanism? I guess you'd be using a stedicam along with a monitor and not a viewfinder as well. Those body stedicam things look scary, both physically and $$$$. Bit over kill for my line of work.
 
You need to work out the difference between moving shots and moving in between shots

Coming from the same background as you I started off wanting to follow the action, which involved moving while rolling

Now I try and get ahead of the action and wait for it - so Im stationary while filming

But dong a lot of moving between shots

That is where shooting from the shoulder comes into it, you can move fast when not shooting

This is particularly important when avoiding 'jump cuts' because typically you need to change your position by at least 30 degrees to the shot before

The more you cut sequences the more you will wnat to move between shots

And also change height

Film your lady cooking dinner

-a wide of the scene

- side on face and hands

- stright on close of hands

- close on face

you will see this cuts very very well and is pretty time consuming on a tripod

watch your local TV boys getting stuff, mainly on the shoulder I guess

I see aquiring a 'sequence' as similar to shooting a 6 picture feature spread , GV, details, etc and that can be slow on 'sticks'

Of courese given time Id go for sticks and certainly for interviews

Steadicam is a different game of money gear, most local TV can survive without it, you can too until you are way better than local TV people

S
 
It really depends on the kind of shooting you do. For example, one of the benefits of a handheld rig is that you are more agile than when using a tripod. You can change camera angle, position, etc. much quicker. There are tradeoffs of course, as you will have to deal with the fatigue of holding the rig and a steady shot is dependent on your own stability as opposed to a locked off tripod.

A steadicam is a different beast altogether. A traditional follow focus is not an option as that will throw off the balance. One option is a wireless FF solution, but now we're talking about much higher budgets.
Also note that getting quality footage while using a steadicam also takes a lot of practice and long shoots are not really practical because of the fatigue from holding the camera (unless you drop a good chunk of change on a vest, arm, etc.).

The point is that there is no perfect solution for all needs. A properly balanced shoulder rig will get you similar stability to that of an ENG cam, which can also yield usable moving footage (think documentary style), but like any other type of support/stabilization gear, will take a fair amount of practice on your part to perfect.
 
Judging by the very first video on your youtube page I would say that shot looks totally off. Why create a sense of dof and have that beautiful landscape appear as a blob of blur? IMO if you want some DOF shots you need to frame it tighter and if you do it that wide you need to still see something interesting in the Bokeh, as what you are showing now just looks like a total blur with no nice swirls or lights.
 
So looking at Gini Rigs : http://stores.ebay.com/GINI-RIGS-HDSLR-RIGS?_rdc=1
What rig would suit my needs to start with based on my original post? Are you able to fit non Gini brand items to it down the track (ie. Redrock, Zacuto etc)

Maybe something like this?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/DSLR-RIG-Ds...ultDomain_0&hash=item3a69e9bbf1#ht_720wt_1014

I assume the handle at top is good for holding the camera at lower angles, but then I'd need an arm to hold a future monitor. Probably wouldn't be able to put any large lenses on it either but I guess you wouldn't be holding a dslr with a f/2.8 70-200mm on your shoulder lol
 
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I find that for field work i prefer working with a camcorder style rig. I keep coming back to my xf305, since it's, all in one. And i can shoot allday withou swapping lens, etc. But i still shoot a lot of dlsr. I find i rarely use my follow focus, but do use my zacuto vf. It is MUCH better than a loupe.A small marshall would be great, especially for clients, but not run &gun. I also have found that smaller is better when off the tripod, and have been working on holding the body steady, while propping the camera with my left hand. Ultimately, i prefer tripods. But i got rid of my manfrotto head.it's horrible. I love my libec head on manfrotto carbon fiber legs. Great in high winds.Also, zacuto quality is worth the price, imho. I am using my slider on almost every shoot. Worth the price. My crane, not so much, yet. Oh, and having a light kit, is invaluable. I don't use my steadicam much. I love having a fisheye for tight locations and super wide shots. My mixpre is always with me when i care about my sound.
 
As to your vids, they look clean and fine, but you are still shooting like a photographer, and not like a filmmaker. Spend some time with orson welles films, and study philip bloom's use of camera work, for a more modern look. Movement, camera angle, establishing shots, cloeups, all go a long way to helping create interest. I always try to get up high during a shoot, even if it means a step stool. Creates a good cutaway. Your newsroom would be good for a timelapse. Maybe explore timelapse for a change.you have multiple bodies.
 
I've been watching a fair bit of PB's videos of late, inspirational stuff. Citizen Kane is one of my favourite movies, and most of my movie collection at home consists of good cinematography work (eg. Snow Falling on Cedar, Shawshank Redemp, Manhatten). Currently I'm slowly working my way through 'Kurt Lancaster's DSLR Cinema' book where I'm already learning about some stuff I never knew about dslr video settings and work before.

We got an XF305 at work, however I don't have easy access to it because it's located at another office where another photographer uses it for his video work. Would a camcorder style rig be something along the lines of this Gini rig? http://www.ebay.com/itm/DSLR-RIG-PR...ultDomain_0&hash=item3cbbaae13f#ht_504wt_1015

To be realistic, I don't have the time to produce filmmaker styled videos all the time at work. I usually have between 4-8 assignments per day (lately it has been 10-11), and at the absolute most 30-40minutes to do both photography, record an interview and shoot some extra video to go with it before heading to the next assignment. Usually I do all of this in 20minutes, which does reflect in the overall quality of the video because it is rushed and unplanned. I do however take advice and critique onboard as I'm sure there is lots of improvement to be had even with such a small working time frame. Give Bloom ten minutes to shoot something and he'd walk away with stuff that would smash me out of the park, but that comes from having lots of experience where I've only really just started doing this over the last few months on my own back with no training or proper filming experience before. I do however aim to eventually get to a respectable level, may not be Academy Award winning but something I'd be proud of within the next 12 months.

I do have a couple of personal video projects I hope to start very soon to feature more 'filmmaker' styled techniques (one is for a competition, the other is personal / family related), as I will have a descent amount of time to plan and execute each shot (from exposure, lens choice etc). Just wanted to get a few more hardware bits (Kessler PB slider, gini rig and an actual video tripod head lol) to help execute these shots better. I got a light kit (well Elinchrom Quadra kit) that I regret buying for my photo work as I rarely use it (plus I've kitted it right out) and cost me a bloody packet. Any recommendations on a good starter light kit for video that won't break the bank? The slider, rig, and future MixPre-D are already going to take a massive chunk out of my tax return.

What would be your suggestion of timelapse with the newsroom? Something setup high above everyone, with shots taken every 3 to 5 seconds over a few hours? I tried a time lapse a while ago, but failed to put it together properly in Adobe AfterEffects. (kept getting a file that was like 20odd GB, and never played back properly). Will have to read more tutorials on that one.

Thanks for your feedback.
 
Got my next dilemma.. choice of monitor.

I've spent a good half day looking through the forum on recommendations. From what I read, it seemed it came down to two choices

SmallHD (the DP4 w/ loupe or the DP6)
Manhattan (not sure which would be the best option)
Mainly to be used on a Canon 5D Mk2, however I do have 1D Mk4 and 7D at hand.

Are there any monitors on the market that have zebra stripes (or are we looking at stupid $), or do most Canon uses just use Magic Lantern as the alternative? Would the features on Magic Lantern display on any external monitor, or purely the LCD on the back of the dslr?

I saw another thread which talked about the cheap monitors on eBay (~250-350), and to most people on there it seemed fine for things such as focusing. For me I would like the monitor to be used more than just focusing.

Just a hard decision on where to go in terms with the monitor. Any recommendations?
 
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Well just bought myself a PB Pocket Dolly earlier in the week. Bought the 3ft version as I thought I might as well go bigger just incase I need to cover my basis. Will eventually purchase the Oracle controller maybe sometime next year. Just need to get a nice fluid head for it, and possibly another tripod to hold it. Any recommendations? Probably want to spend under $500 on the head, and not go too overboard on the legs.

Still haven't got any recommendations on the monitor, though still leaning towards the SmallHD DP6. If a Canon 5D Mk3 does come out, hopefully it will sort out the issues that the current Mk2 has.

While I'm here, thought I might share with you a little project I shot 99.9% by myself for this competition over the past two months. Due to the fact I also film and star in front of it, it's lacking pretty much any camera moves but that's what happens when you're a one man show. No processing was done to any of the footage, and pretty much completely made in iMovie. My cousin made the music to it.

http://youtu.be/Z4qLQTgE7Fk

Hope you enjoy it.


** actually, I bought the NeatVideo plugin and got rid of the awful noise from the one night scene in the clip. That's about it.
 
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