Best Doc Style Film Camera

dasher

dasher

Well-known member
I'm shooting a project that is verite style filmmaking. All handheld. Whip pan re-action shots. Etc. (Rachel Getting Married is a very good example of how many shots will be set up)

Does anyone have any advice as far as rigs go for these types of project?

I'm weight out the ex3 and panasonic 300, 500. I'm considering the red as well, but the cost of renting 2 for more than 2 weeks might decrease the lighting budget (and ability to pay crew).

Any thoughts?
 
Maybe you should give everyone some more info about your project. Are you shooting in SD or HD? What is your intended delivery target? Broadcast, web, DVD etc.

If you are shooting hand held and using a lot of whip pans, you probably want to choose shooting interlaced video, and a cam that has good image stabilization. I just shot my doc using the JVC HD-110U and it has neither. I shot in 24P and used a tripod or slider whenever I could. I did put it up on my shoulder for some wide angle close to the subject shots. The lack of image stabilization wasn't real noticeable. But I can say that the JVC HD110 is not a cam you should consider for your type of shooting.
 
ugh, yeah ... should have mention the important stuff.

I want to shoot in HD and likely will try to create some digi-betas so it can play in film festivals. Like any independent helmer, I'm more than aware that these films should be made w/ internet distrubution in mind, however I'd like to at least try to get into a few fests.
 
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Canon Scoopic, hands down. I use to keep one in my car to shoot bumpers for a show I produced and directed back in the day. Shot like a regular lil camcorder on 16mm. Was totally fool proof.
 
HMC150 - if you're planning on doing all hand held then this camera is the cam for you. Its light as hell! The image quality is amazing as well.
 
I shoot with the HPX-170 for most my doc stuff. It looks great and can hold highlights pretty well for exteriors. Ergonomically, it's very light but still durable enough.
 
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