DVX and Weddings

R

rbeyer

Member
I primarily use my DVX 100 for shooting video to use in creating educational CD/DVDs. A family member has asked me to tape her wedding since she is only inviting close family and friends, and is on a limited budget. I've noticed on the forums a tendency to use a Sony (DVcam?) or Canon rather than a DVX. Any specific reasons.

I've also been thinking about a DV recorder to minimize the load on the DVX. I'm a dedicated DVX user and want to go with the AG-DV2500P but have heard the Sony deck is the way to go. Any thoughts? Anyone using the Panasonic deck or know of any reviews?

Thanks from a Minnesota novice,
Rob
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

They were probably using XL1 and Sony's because:

1)The XL1 camera body has the look of a pro video camera and thats always nice for the client that just dropped a few grand for you to shoot their wedding

2)Sony VX2000 and other cameras are generally better under low light then the Panasonic. 1 lux vs. 3 lux

3)It used to be that the DVX100 didnt have auto focus in progressive mode and wedding videographers often use auto focus for their unrehearsed style shooting. This is no longer a issue with the DVX100-A (although the DVX is a bit slower at finding focus then the Sony and Canon.

4)Some invested in alot of their gear years ago - before the DVX100 came out.

5)Often times wedding videographers are shooting side by side with other cameras. They want them to all match for editing purposes so they either bought what most people already had or didnt want to invest in 2 or 3 DVX100a's.

6)They didnt like the 10X zoom on the DVX because it was sometimes too short for their "fly on the wall" shooting.

Personally I think the DVX100a is the best camera from wedding videography (we'll see about the XL2) because of its film mode and size. A wedding shot in film mode will feel more dreamy and more like watching a film. It captures the emotion better and lets the bride see her wedding as she felt instead of a documentary feel you get from other cameras. Besides slo mo is often used and if you shoot your segments that you plan to slow down in post in 60i you will end up with a much smoother slo mo when put side by side with the other 24p footage. Add a 1.6X teleconverter and your DVX has just a long a lens as the other guys.

-Brett Erskine
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I use the DVX for Weddings and have have great results. Customers have always said that the look is awsome. I always shoot in 24pa mode. I use 2 so I can pick up the bride and groom and have a Sony PD100 on a WS in the balcony. This is where all my audio is going, In post using Vegas, I convert the Sony 60i back to 24 frames and with some color correction.  I cut to it every so offten and and the match isnt to far off. So far it seeems to work. The DVX Rocks.
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

Hey JRT, How difficult is it to convert the 60i to 24fps, I'm going to be filming a wedding in a bit and was concerned what setting to use. my other camera is a gs200 that get's placed off to the side but I was thinking that i'd have to film in 60I or the gs200 wouldn't be able to come close.
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I agree, the DVX100 has been an excellent camera.

I also would appreciate any recommendations on cameras for low-light use.

thanks,
Roben
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I've shot several weddings on the 100A and agree it works like a champ. The only negs have already been mentioned - not quite as good as Sony in low light (but I think the 100 stands up pretty well!) and only a 10x zoom.

DECK - Don't know much about the Panasonic deck, but when I bought my Sony DSR-11, I talked with the B&H rep I was dealing with about Panasonic. He felt the Sonys are more solid. Another consideration - I think the Panasonics only play/record in DV. The Sony can play/record DV and DVCam, which gives you a little more flexibility.

Some general thoughts about shooting the wedding (I know you didn't ask, but thought I'd share anyway :) )
* Be as close to the altar as possible and stand on the grooms side (right side facing altar). This will allow you to see the brides face during vows.
* Use a wireless lav and mic the groom. This way you can hear the vow.
* Get cutaways of the audience. This will give you something to cover bobbles/bad cam moves.
* If you're taping the reception, make sure you have a sungun or some light source. Typically very dark and need some sort of light to get a decent image.
* If you have it/can afford it, the 1.6x teleconverter is a great idea. At the same time, I've done fine w/out it.

Guess that's all for now. Good luck!
Donny
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

Thanks for the information. I sure have apprciated everyone's input.

I feel comfortable with my DVX100, but typically only out on the wooded trails shooting material for educational DVDs. It's been interesting learning about the complexity of professional videography.

I will follow-up with your recommendation for lighting.

Thanks again Donny,
Roben
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

audio,audio,audio
you can really wow them with great audio keep that in mind, and stick your shots dont get to zoom happy- in post youll regret it.
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I would be appreciative if someone who uses their DVX for weddings be willing to share their settings (ceremony vs. reception)? I'm not sure if I want to shoot my first wedding with the DVX in 24p because I lose the auto features...I know its best to go manual anyway!


Roben
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I haven't used mine for a wedding yet but I'm planning to shoot an upcoming ceremony in 30P and the reception in 60i. I'll plan to go full manual unless I have to go auto for a short time. I think the 30P will give the ceremony a little dreamy look while I believe the reception will look better in 60i. There will be less light at the reception so 60i will fare better for that reason as well.
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I'm shooting my friends' wedding in a couple of weeks. I'm looking forward to it because it's an outdoor wedding. It should look fantastic.
 
Re: DVX and Weddings

I have shot many of weddings with the DVX and for a first timer I would stay away from 24p if you are not comfortable shooting a live event manual.

Option-Shoot the pre ceremony in 24 its a more controlled setting than switch to 30 or 60 for the rest of the time. This gives a movie like opening for the wedding. Also dont get hung up on what frame rate looks best, be very focused on the shots that are important and telling the story of the day- If you miss the key moments no will care how cool the 24 frame rate looks. So be very clear on the agenda so you can be one step ahead.

Good Luck!
 
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