My first aerial helicopter shoot is coming up next week. I was using the on board wescam but the client prefers the cheaper handheld option. Only thing I got is my HMC80 as the DSLR would just be too shaky. I'm going to use a Lowrider cinesaddle type bag with bubbie attached to the interior roof. What I'm worried about is the CMOS chip. I've heard filming at 120fps helps but I'd hate to come home wasting the clients money. I'll let you know how HMC80 does but if anyone has suggestions I'll take em. And I can't rent a stabilizer, no budget for it.
First helicopter shoot, HMC80 to the test!
- Thread starter Oaken
- Start date
I was going to start a thread about the OIS in the HMC40 regarding my recent experience. Just for kicks, I shot some video from my inflatable boat with a 25hp OB a few weeks ago. There weren't waves to speak of, but it was choppy enough to vibrate a lot. I put the HMC on a tripod, held on to it with one hand, and ran to OB with the other. Risky I know, but what the hey. The output was surprisingly good and I came to the conclusion that the OIS on the HMC40 was superior to both the DVX100a and the HPX170. That is a qualitative assessment, but I am fairly certain. If anyone is interested, I'll try to edit a bit up and post it next week. After trying to shoot at 30p and getting poor results, I went with 720/60p @ 120/sec shutter and that worked well.
If the HMC80 OIS is the same, you might be surprised at how well it does. I am so often amazed at the HMC40, it is like the little cam that can.
Grant
If the HMC80 OIS is the same, you might be surprised at how well it does. I am so often amazed at the HMC40, it is like the little cam that can.
Grant
Tim Joy
Veteran
I don't know what you're paying for the time in the Heli, but have you considered hiring an RC heli to get the shots instead. I know these guys do great work. http://www.steamboataerials.com/
As well as several other people in the area.
As well as several other people in the area.
My only thought is to stabilize the top as well as the bottom of the camera. I'm not sure what the harmonic vibration would be like with your rig. You can get some stretchy flat bungie straps from target for like 10 bucks thrown over a folded towel on the body of the hmc80. Maybe that will help.