I only have $4,000 for a camera and lights and a mic

K

kidpreshus

New member
I've realized that the HVX is out of my range but i want something with HD ability. Can anyone recommend something in the 2000-3000? I've been looking at the Canon xh 1a and even the Sony HVR-HD1000U which seems like a great deal. I'm planning on buying a used light kit and mic so that will get me in right around my budget. Thanks
 
Sound: Oktava MK012 w/ Hyper Cardiod Cap (I've recently sold one for like 125$)
Camera: Xh-A1: a new one is 3,299.95 at BH...I'm sure you can find a used one for 3000$
Lights: that's where things get harder to get something decent and still maitain the budget you're aiming for...I guess you could get http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/298509-REG/Impact_401487_Tungsten_Floodlight_Kit.html but it really doesn't look like a good option. There's also some good DIY tutorials showing how to turn home depo garden lights into "workable" lights for filming
 
Check the stuff they have over at cool lights . They have good prices and selection. You can get yourself a good 3-point light kit with the money leftover.

But if you'd tell us what kind of work you'll be doing, we can make better suggestions on the equipment that would best suit your needs.
 
Rather than getting everything at once, perhaps you should focus on the most essential piece of equipment; the camera. Do some research and decide what the most appropriate camera is for your purpose and your budget. Let that become your building block, then expand from there as it becomes necessary and as you can afford to do so.
 
I guess it all kind of boils down to what Hudson asked before...it all depends on what is he plannig to do with it.
 
kidpreshus said:
I've realized that the HVX is out of my range but i want something with HD ability. Can anyone recommend something in the 2000-3000? I've been looking at the Canon xh 1a and even the Sony HVR-HD1000U which seems like a great deal. I'm planning on buying a used light kit and mic so that will get me in right around my budget. Thanks
Click to expand...

Don't get the Sony HVR-HD1000U, its a cheap sony consumer camcorder in a big shell. The xh a1 is an amazing camera, and I would say you should go for it. Before you pick up a lighting kit, I would say you should buy a good tripod.
 
I would deffinentally go for the A1 or save up for an hvx or ex1. Honestly if you saved up this much why cut yourself short.
 
Depending on what you want to do with it...I would buy an HV20 and then accessorize like crazy. Later on down the line when you want to upgrade your cam you would have everything you need to keep going. You would sell yourself short if you bought a $3500.00 cam and no accessories. I'd say with the small cam get a top notch tripod...and deck out the cam with a 35mm adapter "after" you get a good set of lights.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top