WpgCameraMan
Well-known member
I got my 501HDV yesterday and it's a _freaking_ huge head for the 150, at least that is my first impression. I'll set it up next to my desk and work it in over the next few days, could be tight from the factory. Instructions talk about a telescopic handle, but I got a single piece I feel could be at least 6 inches longer.
Also bought a VariZoomVZ-T100AM tripod. The tripod is also seemingly pretty large for a 150, the mid-level spreader is nice. Must say, this looks to be a very quality unit, and I can't wait to find some time to get this out in the field.
Now, I came from a Frot 3011BN and a 701RC2 head, so it could just be the initial shock. I use Vinten and Sachtler all the time with large broadcast cameras, and my new gear looks better-sized for that kind of work. Almost worried I bought too big, ya know? On the plus side, someone's head at Amazon is gonna roll when they find out they let $290 sticks ship for $143.
A Libec zoom controller (somewhat unimpressed, the lowest speed from the camera's rocker isn't happening with this thing, and the Japanese all over the instructions makes me feel I paid $135 for something that Deal Extreme would sell for $50). Not the smoothness I was expecting).
Lowel Pro light. Again, sits somewhat big on the camera, but now I've got a really useful light. When the budget allows, I'll pick up an iLight for DC-only use. Can't ever go wrong with Lowel.
Looks are not everything, but there's nothing 'run & gun' about these 3 items, so I'll have to adjust my shooting style somewhat.
Maybe I'm not used to owning the best tools.
And I get all this as I'm trying to wind down my freelance biz for the foreseeable future. Sigh. Making enough money working for others using their gear.
However, now ALL my gear is 'broadcast', sticks, head, lights (mostly), G2 wireless, camera... so nothing to be ashamed of.
Maybe the resident VariZoom rep can weigh in on the operation of his zoom controller and the HMC150 compared to the Libec (which I would not recommend to anyone except Uncle Steve and his LANC-capable Hi8).
Also props to BH Photo for shipping me a 2nd box containing my Ushio 250w bulb :thumbsup:. Plenty of room in the box with my Pro light, barn doors and Libec.
Also bought a VariZoomVZ-T100AM tripod. The tripod is also seemingly pretty large for a 150, the mid-level spreader is nice. Must say, this looks to be a very quality unit, and I can't wait to find some time to get this out in the field.
Now, I came from a Frot 3011BN and a 701RC2 head, so it could just be the initial shock. I use Vinten and Sachtler all the time with large broadcast cameras, and my new gear looks better-sized for that kind of work. Almost worried I bought too big, ya know? On the plus side, someone's head at Amazon is gonna roll when they find out they let $290 sticks ship for $143.
A Libec zoom controller (somewhat unimpressed, the lowest speed from the camera's rocker isn't happening with this thing, and the Japanese all over the instructions makes me feel I paid $135 for something that Deal Extreme would sell for $50). Not the smoothness I was expecting).
Lowel Pro light. Again, sits somewhat big on the camera, but now I've got a really useful light. When the budget allows, I'll pick up an iLight for DC-only use. Can't ever go wrong with Lowel.
Looks are not everything, but there's nothing 'run & gun' about these 3 items, so I'll have to adjust my shooting style somewhat.
Maybe I'm not used to owning the best tools.
And I get all this as I'm trying to wind down my freelance biz for the foreseeable future. Sigh. Making enough money working for others using their gear.
However, now ALL my gear is 'broadcast', sticks, head, lights (mostly), G2 wireless, camera... so nothing to be ashamed of.
Maybe the resident VariZoom rep can weigh in on the operation of his zoom controller and the HMC150 compared to the Libec (which I would not recommend to anyone except Uncle Steve and his LANC-capable Hi8).
Also props to BH Photo for shipping me a 2nd box containing my Ushio 250w bulb :thumbsup:. Plenty of room in the box with my Pro light, barn doors and Libec.
