More Practice or Zoom Controller?

That Todd Guy

That Todd Guy

Active member
I've got a question...
When I am using my DVX 100B for shooting events,
I find it almost impossible to manually focus and zoom-in smoothly.
Is this because I need to get more comfortable with the equipment,
or do I need to invest in a zoom controller?
If so, which one?
Right now.. I kind of feel like no matter how much practice I get,
some of my shots still won't go smoothly unless I either get a zoom controller
or grow a third arm.

Thanx,

That "Todd" Guy
 
Get a Zoom Controller.

It is practically impossible ot produce a perfectly smooth zoom manually with the ring. The Servos in the lens do a much better job of this.

- Mikko
 
What's the diffrence between having a zoom controller and just using the servo zoom in camera? I just never really saw a point in these, unless I'm missing something of course(Which I hope I am...).
 
Like Mikko said, to keep a consistent smooth zoom manually is quite hard, and even harder if your trying to focus at the same time. I just got this controller from varizoom, http://varizoom.com/products/controls/vzrockpzfi.html and I really like it. It works well and its easy to control. Its able to attach right onto the tripod handle and besides being able to control the zoom, focus and iris, it has a record start/stop button on it, so theres almost no need to touch the camera adding unnecessary shakes.
 
I think he's actually saying that he's zooming with the servo, but trying to focus manually as he does so. Which is very hard if not impossible.

Have you tried swithcing to autfocus when you zoom and then back to manual once you're in?
 
Hmm, good point Bunyip.

A little clarification from That Todd Guy would be usefull.

However, yes it's possible to manually track focus while zooming with servo - profesional camera operators do it day in day out.

If the camera is handheld, then this should be a snap. However on a tripod, you'll probabaly want a zoom controler just from a point of ergonomics so that you stand next to/behind the camera, and don't have to reach over it to get to the zoom rocker on the handle.

- Mikko
 
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