Starting out

R

Radikal

Member
Hello everyone.

I am just starting with video and have questions just about everything.

I am most interested in knowing about

(1) the basic "must have" hardware (lighting, supports, audio);
(2) the basics of shooting and editing;
(3) affordable alternatives to Premiere Elements and Vegas.

I am well versed in photography, and so far have been using my photo gear (Nikon D90, tripond, ballhead, monopod, halogen lamp). The only operating platform I have access to is Windows Vista 64.

Any suggestions, experience or sources of information would be highly appreciated.
 
(1) I suggest searching the data base here for info on hardware. Since this is the DVXUSER FORUM you will come across a ton of information about Panasonic cameras. Specifically the HVX200/HPX170/HPX300 and HPX500. There other info about additional cameras as well. Also, search for audio, tripods, etc and you'll find plenty of info.

(2) Hang out with a professional and ask plenty of questions and be observant. Work for him/her as an intern or volunteer on shoots. Or, go to school for video/film.

(3) Look at Final Cut Studio...there are a variety of AVID products... EDIUS products as well as the one's you mentioned. Again, a search here will uncover information. Also GOOGLE will be of assistance.

Jim
 
When you say starting out, what does that mean? Are you a complete novice with no ability or experience with making income from your work? Are you a talented hobbiest looking to expand?

My advice is to avoid gear lust and acquire the bare minimum need to produce quality work. Camera is first priority. Audio is second. Grip equipment is third. Depending on where you are at in the spectrum , that could mean a handi-cam, cheap wired lav & Home Depot Work Lights -or- a professional HD camera, high end wireless audio & shotgun mics, Soft box & multiple frenels, C-stands & Sandbags, Gels & Gobos...etc.
One very overlooked expense is the tripod. Cheap ones offer poor performance. Better performing ones are more expensive. The cheapest decent fluid head tripod is probably the 'Cartoni focus' or 'Sachtler' products.

Also, read a lot of books. Shoot digital stills. Practice your video skills. There is not a piece of equipment on earth that will make your footage look professional. Only you can do that. A friend of mine worked on a sound gig where Eric Clapton showed up last minute to jam. They only had a cheap small amp for him to play through. What do you know, it still sounded just like Clapton.

Affordable alternative NLES? The truth is, they are all affordable if you plan to make money from your work. I personally like FCP. If you cannot afford a full NLE, start with something cheap like FCE or imovie or windows platform and upgrade when you grow out of it.

When I go on a shoot, I always bring: Camera, Fluid head tripod, High quality wireless and wired audio, Arri light kit with soft box, a couple of C-stands, Gels, a Cookaloris, batteries and headphones. On bigger shoots I bring more.


Jason
 
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Thank you very much; I'd be happy to clarify:

I am an avid photographer and would like to start making video as a hobby, not for money unless I get really good at it. Since I'm used to making high-quality, meaningful photos, I would also like to do the same with video.

Currently, my video camera is a Nikon D90, and I've been getting by on photo gear (tripod, ballhead, lenses, halogen lamp).

I am not about to go on a shopping spree, I want to learn the skills with the minimum equipment.

You said to read a lot; What books would you recommend? I
 
The 5 C's of Cinematography. Reflections. Matters of Light and Depth. American Cinematographer Magazine. In the Blink of an Eye. MIchael Wise books, especially Shot By Shot.

Watch the DVD called Cinematography Style, available through the ASC.

Most professional DPs study fine arts, especially renaissance painting. Also study the classic still photographers.

Lighting is important. Large natural sources work really well for most subjects (even free ones like a big window on an overcast day). Photography knowhow will take you a long way in the video world - zone system, bounce boards, 3 point lighting, diffusion/butterflies...etc. Control is important with video; the available dynamic range is a lot less than you will find with DSLRs. You may want to invest in a small light kit if you decide to do indoor shooting, especially if you want to do interviews.

Get the mic as close to the subject as possible. Never use on camera audio. Professional video compressionists will tell you that audio is just as important as the video (maybe more important), if you want to keep your audience interested.

Never use auto focus, auto white balance or auto iris.

Shoot to edit - wide establishing shots, medium shots, close ups & over the shoulder shots. Pick out the details like in a photo essay and shoot it. Get lots of coverage (B-roll) so you have options in the edit suite.

Avoid zooming (unless as a means to focus). Think about how your favorite movie was shot. Plan your shots, even if you are shooting Run & Gun type work. Let the characters move within the frame. Hold your shots for at least the count of 10. You will thank yourself in the edit suite.

Hope that helps.


Jason
 
Jason

Thanks, Very well said and compelling information to a "working, in-progress" novice (about 10 months with the 200a and I learn more everyday).

I appreciate, as I know the OP does, your concise information. I have been a lurker on this forum for 3 years, rarely post, and bought the HVX after nearly 2 years of "hanging out" (and shooting with Sony handhelds). So much can be learned here (and the Barry Green materials I have), but I know there is a LOT more out there. Other ways to learn how to shoot compelling video. Crazy, anyone can learn the systems, the art is in the shot. You learn that REALLY quick in this business!

Thanks for the leads and the wisdom. (and taking the time to answer the youngsters:))

Jeremy
 
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