HVX? HPX? w/35mm New camera and project; need advice

[evolvnyc]

So I have done many searches and have had trouble getting these questions answered.
I have been shooting with a dvx for years and am very comfortable with it. I've just been hired to Dp a short film and my production company is using this opportunity to upgrade to an HD camera with the finds from this project. The whole piece is to be shot "handheld.' It will be stylized and framed and will mainly have a very controlled perspective, not a jerky, run-n-gun feel. It will be shown in festivals and therefore will be on a large screens and I don't want it to make people nauseous.

So, here are my questions; If I don't need tape, is there any reason to take the hvx over the hpx?

How is *Good handheld actually done with a hvx/hph with a 35mm adapter on it? (Probably Letus extreme unless anyone recommends anything better...?)

Do I need a steady-cam op? Should I try and use a Merlin? Is there something else?

What else should I learn about and consider using, money is there but not copious, so I can rent or buy things I need. We were hoping to at least decide on a camera and adapter and rent the rest. I just have no experience with HD or handheld techniques.

Thanks!

 

[jrmiller_entertainment]

1.) apparently there are people complaining abouta wiggle in the lens of the hpx, I have a 200a so I can't comment but it's something to check into.

2.) A steady-cam will definitely give the project a smooth look

3.) a merlin won't support the weight of the hvx and adapter.

4.) you'll need some kind of rail system with the adapter, and you can find a good shoulder mount to attach to the rails.

Rent one and practice with with it. I'd feel much more comfortable spending some money to learn the camera than trying to figure it out the day of a shoot...it could cost you time and money. You could aslso hire a dp that has one.

 

[evolvnyc]

Thanks, jrm.
I read about the wiggle and apparently they are going to fix it, still being worked out I guess.
So would you say that an hpx with a 35mm attached to a shoulder mount is the best way to go for handheld looking style? Is this limiting in your angles and heights? I assume a steady cam is oging to cost lots of $ any way you slice it?