Have camera. Which next: mic, lighting or tripod?

Dave ©

Dave ©

Well-known member
Sorry if this has already been addressed. I'm new to the site. I read 100s of posts and used the search function as well but can't seem to find the answer to what is probably a pretty basic question about priorities.

I've had FCS2 since November and am making good progress with FCP6 using my home video footage from a decent "Handicam". I literally just took the dive and purchased my first HVX (200a) this week. Along with it, I purchased a B+W UV Haze MRC filter and, of course, the HVX Boot Camp DVDs by Barry.

My question is this. What's next in terms of gear? I know that I need a good tripod, a good mic (or mics) and some lighting, not to mention a case for my camera. But which one should be my next priority? Here is the order I'm thinking:
1. Good mic (probably an on-camera shotgun mic)
2. Good tripod (read through the reviews/FAQs, which were really helpful)
3. Lighting (probably a very basic lighting kit and then expand as possible; also read the reviews and know that some don't think the kits are a good deal)
4. Additional mics as possible.

Does this order make sense or do you suggest an alternate order?

I'm not asking for advice about specific mics, tripods, and lighting. I think those are covered adequately in other threads (although if anyone wants to suggest some then I'm all ears).

I appreciate any/all thoughts.
 
I'd probably go with the tripod first, allowing you to work on learning cinematography before you have your gear set up. You won't be doing proper narratives until you get the first three set, so I don't think audio is going to be the highest priority yet. It's pretty personal, though, dependent more on what you want to do first than anything else.
 
Lights can get pretty pricey, but at least you can always rent them for like $50-$75 a day. Try the AT897 Shotgun mic and a 503 HDV Manfrotto tripod to start both. Both this items should total about $900.
 
First off, congrats on your HVX200a purchase, great camera! As far as priorities for equipment purchases go, I would probably take in consideration that you will be doing practice shots/short films to get to know the camera and all of the many functions. With that in mind, I would suggest:

1. Good tripod. I have the Libec LS-38 and it is really an incredible tripod for the price, very smooth action. (I first bought the Bogen Manfrotto 503HDV, but I returned it right away because when you would start to pan or tilt it would stick, which immediately screws up your shot; I even tried it with the HVX alone, without the added weight of my 35mm adapter, and it was the same issue)
2. HD monitor. When your dealing with HD, focus is crucial, and the LCD screen on the camera just won't cut it.
3. Lighting. Make sure to do some research and practice proper lighting techniques.
4. Good microphone. The reason I would put this last is because the onboard mic is good enough for practice shots, and also it doesn't take much to learn how to use it.

And some other equipment you may also want to look into:
-35mm adapter
-camera dolly (I bought a DIY camera dolly on eBay for cheap, it runs on PVC pipes. I get really great shots with it)
 
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Thanks for the help. I think I'll go with a tripod (Libec LS38) and backpack first. Any thoughts on backpacks?
 
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