Panasonic HVX200p Follow Focus/Mattebox

[nefilmgroup]

I was thinking about improving my HVX with a couple additions. I use the camera solely for short films. I'm not very experienced when it comes to these types of add-ons and was hoping someone here could assist.

I'm trying to find a follow focus and mattebox for under $500 for my camera. What would be a good brand? Also, are there any other essential additions to get, like a depth of field adapter. The only other one I've considered picking up was a wide angle lens.

Thanks,

Paul

 

[wgzn]

with the DSLR "revolution" so widespread these days, people are selling off depth of field adapters that used to cost a couple grand for like $200-$500. and if you're making "short films" i'd say that would be the best place to start. of course then you will need a lot of other support gear (not to mention LENSES) so that will eclipse your budget pretty quickly

if you want to keep using your hvx, without an adapter, your accessory options get a little narrower. for a follow focus, youd probably be best off with one with a "friction wheel" as opposed to lens gears. not sure how many offer that anymore. i think indi-system still does...
if you want a proper mattebox, in nearly ALL cases you will need a baseplate and rail system to support it. you can pick up a variety of chinese mattebox+rail set ups. but that will approach your $500 pretty quick. which leaves you little money for filters...

to get the most bang for your buck. i'd probably point you to a FF from indi-system and then just use the stock hvx lens hood with a variety of screw-on filters. though at 82mm they are going to be pricier and harder to find...

here are a few places to start for decent, budget-gear:
http://kamerar.com/
http://www.indisystem.com/
http://ikancorp.com/
http://jag35.com/