Hi Guys, I'm new, 1st post

RussClarke

New member
I am interested in starting a website targeted to us techy geeks who cant cook. I am a chef and want to teach internet-heads how to cook easy meals that will keep them away from fast food, etc... and I want to build different segments related to cooking...

I want it to be somewhat professional looking with a good showtune, and good quality video with little funny effects here and there.

What is a good Camera around the 6-800.00USD range that I should look into? also, would one camera be enough?

Thank you in advance.
 
One camera would be enough but get plenty of coverage of your master. One camera will just require more time and more attention to continuity.

As far a teaching tech guys to cook, take it slow at first. Maybe a show on boiling water and then work up to mac and cheese and then go really advanced like a PB&J. LOL
 
Well for 6 to 8 thousand you could actually pick up a couple of good used HVX 200's from sellers on this site and still have a few dollars left for P2 cards.
 
6 to 8 Hundred....

For the web you would not need a mid to high end camera.

The last camera I owned that was used for "web only" was a Digital-8 camera from Sony.
I would check Best Buy and I would look for something flash based [flash card not Flash].
One camera would be enough.

Sound and lighting are your friends. :)
 
Hidef, thank you so much man, thats all I needed to know... any suggestions as far as compression, and converting video for youtube, etc? Also, what programs do you recommend for editing and production, etc?
 
Check out the Canon HV30 $600 - $900 or for a little more, you can invest in a 7D and have not only an amazing video cam, but an excellent Digital SLR $1500 - $2000.
 
What do you guys think of the Panasonic AG-HMC40??

I think it's a camera you can use for far more than just the web.
It's more than $1700.00 but from what I undrestand the images are great.

I use Sony Vegas Pro but if your plans are for simple but professional video you should do fine with most non-pro editors because it's how you shoot and cut that makes your product look professional.
Make sure that whatever NLE you get can deal with your camera's format.
 
The HMC40, shooting with good lighting, can certainly deliver an image that would be downright excellent for using to make web video, and it's a pro-caliber tool (robust manual control well beyond what you'll find in consumer cams). The 40 comes bundled with Edius Neo 2 - an NLE that's well suited for editing the AVCHD footage the camera records. (NLE = Non Linear Editor)

If you go with a consumer cam, I strongly suggest you do not go to Best Buy for it. B&H Photo carries all the cams you can find at Best Buy, and prices are better. If you do go with a consumer cam, look at the new Canons that can record native progressive 24p.
 
How do I know if they are compatible?? Is the NLE the Editing software??

First you should look for a website targeting 'chef-geeks' that teaches them how to be a 'tech-geeks' and 'internet-heads'! :2vrolijk_08:

Seriously though... there's a lot more to producing a good web series than buying a camera and some software. If you really want this to happen, you should consider partnering with a 'video-geek'. There is a wealth of information here, so search the threads. If you just ask random questions, you'll get a million opinions and it really won't help you in the long run.

Surround yourself with a talented team that has dedicated tasks and you will succeed. (plus, you'll learn a lot along the way) :beer:


....and welcome to the site!
 
Every thing Zaza says is correct. Besides you need more than just a camera to get a good looking production. Good sound and a good light set-up should be placed with as much importance as the camera. Especially dealing with food... a poorly lit set will make the most delicious meal look like crap.

Also consider format and the length of your cooking segments. The use of voiceover to speed through things can be useful for editing and will make your shoot a lot more versatle as well as editing. Even if you are Mr Personality, this can work in your favor and help you to keep the time right since most people won't care about your personality at first and just want information. As you get more comfortable you can expand on the personality, but starting out gotta figure out your style and your unique hook that will bring people back for more.
 
depending where you live there is probably an already established indie film community, approach them and ask about members in good standing who might be willing to help you, at least in my city i can think of 5 or 6 people who would take time out of their day to shoot just about anything :)
 
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