An introduction, a plea

[DentArthurDent]

Hello all. My name is Jonathan, and I'm an addict.. Err, uh, well, yeah. These forums have been like crack these last few days... I wanted to introduce myself a little and ask you all for some advice.

My current situation: I am a student (creative writing major), with ambitions of making movies. Currently, I have $1300 saved up, and I'll have a little left over in a couple of months, to buy a camera. I've gotten it widdled down to DVX100a or the XL1S. Mainly due to budget constraints.

Ideally, I want to create my own films; but to justify the purchase to my wife, and being that I was recently laid off, I have come to the conclusion I should shoot events. These being weddings, other events like that, as well as some charity stuff my group does. I do want to add that I do not need any money for a living, but merely as a guise to buy myself a fancy camera.

I'm no stranger to the video camera; maybe to the prosumer level, but it isn't enough to scare me off. Everything I've read says that the DVX100 has a short learning curve.

To get more to my point, do you guys think I could pull off starting my own video business with a camera and an idea? Any success stories out there?

Can I start up with roughly $1500? Would I need more than the camera, PC, and software (besides clients of course, lol)?

Also, thank you guys for being so knowledgeable and welcoming (...I hope :violent5

 

[Jim Brennan]

Yes. I started with a DVX and a tripod about 6 years ago. I never went into debt, and since, up until recently, never had to worry about contributing to the home coffers with film/video income, used the money I made to buy lots and lots of gear.

Still haven't done weddings though. Never want to.

 

[ChipThome]

I'd look for a 100B and watch Ebay for a Manfrotto tripod and head. You should be able to do the pair for your $1500. The tripod should last you through several cameras, so don't scrimp there too much. Manfrotto's low end fluid heads are pretty decent, compared to other's mid line gear. Stay away from the Manfrotto Modo line though. I bought one which has what they claim is a "video" head included, and it is crap.

A camera and tripod will "get you in the game" but for weddings, you will be severely lacking without mics etc. But those can come as you find spare cash.

Good luck !!!!!