GH2 Using a rig or steadicam with EVF

[Fly-catchers]

Whenever I see shots of DSLR's on a rig or steadicam it appears as if either a loupe is attached to the LCD screen or an external EVF or monitor is used. Can the GH2 EVF also be used sucessfully? As you would that much closer to the camera, and I notice that even breathing has an effect on camera movement. Though that is of course what I am noticing just hand holding the camera. Which is best for just general street shooting- a lightweight rig or steadicam?


cheers

 

[snowleopard]

When you say loupe, I think you're talking about something akin to the Zacuta Z-Finder. With the Canon DSLRs, you can't focus using the viewfinder while the camera is recording video due to how the mirror works. Perhaps Magic Lantern overrides this, but I could be wrong. The GH2 is mirrorless. So technically it's not an SLR. As such, you can look through the viewfinder while recording video, correct? This would make the Zacuto Z-Finder (attached to the LCD screen) not necessary.

As to your steadicam question, that's an entire further discussion, and there are so many units out there, it's difficult to answer your question as to what is best for general street shooting, or what you mean by lightweight rig (do you mean shoulder mount, for hand held?). Actual steadicam units take patience and skill to master even somewhat competently. There's also a real difference between an actual full unit with arm and vest, and an arm-only unit. Then, there's a difference between something inexpensive, 3rd party, and an actual Steadicam unit (the Pilot version and up). As such, understand that there's a real difference between a shoulder rig, an arm-only steadicam unit, a full vest/arm unit, and other units, some with no gimbal (Steadytracker for example) which are easier to use.

Here's a shot of the Z-Finder.

 

[Fly-catchers]

Yes the reason I mentioned a loupe such as the Z-finder is that it keeps the user further away from the camera. I find that when I use the EVF that even my breathing has an effect on how steady I can keep the camera. And wonder whether a shoulder mount would also be effected. And if so what is the best setup for the GH2 and steady street shooting without a tripod.

 

[Martti Ekstrand]

I've been using the EVF on my GH1 from day one when shooting hand held and really like it. Have never felt a need for a loupe on the external screen. See 'Closing Time' and 'The Farmer's Flea Market' in my sig for examples. As for steady cam type stabilizers you should get yourself a better understanding in how they work. One cannot look into the viewfinder at all but need to use the external screen or an add-on monitor. You cannot manually focus during takes either unless you have a wireless remote follow focus.