O.T. Camcorder Kit for Shooting Outdoors

StefanS wrote on 9/10/2004, 7:27 PM

Hi all
Looking to buy a 3 chip prosumer type camcorder with accessories to produce training DVDs. Majority of the shoots will be outside, with some inside. Like the package to be easy to handle and reasonably cost-effective. Accessories, think...lighting, onboard XLR type audio sys., tripod, carrycase and anything else not mentioned.
Thanks in advance
Stefan

Like to have some input who have been up this road

Comments

farss wrote on 9/10/2004, 7:48 PM

Don't know about the accessories but sounds like you'll be shooting under controlled lighting, can't go far wrong with Panasonic DVC 30.
I only own an old D8 camera so you can take my opinion as being fairly unbiased.
If you aren't that keen on the Panny stuff I'd go for the PD 170.

Tripods, well the Miller Solo is hard to beat, bit expensive but easy for one person to setup and very flexible.

As for lighting, well for outdoors, look at Photflex (or similar) reflectors), be careful of cheap reflectors, the fabric wears out very quickly.
For indooors, we import the Lupo fluro and HMI range, very reasonable kit with minimal heat but don't know how you'd find them in the USA.
You need to look at some good audio gear. For training stuff you could shoot the vision on a SVHS camera but man you MUST get good sound. In fact for much training stuff you could get by with a still camera so long as your audio is good, think about it. The video is mostly there to keep the eyes occupied while the ears listen to the message.

Bob

StefanS wrote on 9/11/2004, 6:21 PM

>>For indooors, we import the Lupo fluro and HMI range, very reasonable kit with minimal heat but don't know how you'd find them in the USA.<<

Actually an Ossie, mate.;-)

How much would these lights costs in the Aussie Peso, Bob?
Re: cameras, as I,m shooting for the DVD medium, best to shoot 16:9?
Not to sure the PD170 shoots 16:9 like the VX2100, but I know it has very good wraps.
Stefan

richard-courtney wrote on 9/11/2004, 6:48 PM

Tripods with good quality heads are very important.

ND filters and in some cases polarized filters are a good invenstment.

White foam core poster board (art supply stores) are inexpensive light bounce.

Shade screen found at garden supply shops are good to keep talent and
crew from overheating and to cut down on glare. Need poles w/sand bag
weights.

Wireless mics with windscreens or booms with the "feather duster" socks
are a must.

farss wrote on 9/11/2004, 9:07 PM

I'll get a price form the boss tomorow for you or you could email me at farssAToptusnetDOTcomDOTau

As to the 16:9 issue, you're right the VX1000 doesn't do true 16:9, in fact none of the prosummer cammeras do. The PDX10 does but it has woefully small CCDs which is why we're hanging out for the Sony HDV cam, not as much for the HD but for the decent 16:9

You're only other alternative is to stick a slab of expensive glass on front of the camera or else oh yes the XL2. I think the Sony HDV camera is going to eclipse it though despite the lack of XLR mic ins.

Bob.

FuTz wrote on 9/14/2004, 7:32 AM

Just passing by: concerning 16:9 there's a bit of info there:

http://www.bbctraining.com/onlineCourse.asp?tID=5173&cat=0

farss wrote on 9/14/2004, 8:02 AM

Stefan
Lights cost AUD 2,400 inc GST.
If you're in Sydney we also hire them.
If you need more details please email me, see post above.

Bob.

StefanS wrote on 9/14/2004, 6:42 PM

Thanks Bob
I'm Sydney based. Still working on the "wishlist". Have got your email address and will email you when I've finalised what I need.
Stefan

StefanS wrote on 9/14/2004, 7:10 PM

Just purchased Martha Mollison"s book called "Producing Videos: A Complete Guide, 2nd Edition. the 550 page book covers everything from camera operation to copyright and distribution. Bargain at $45 (Australian). Amazon sells 'em for $29.95
Stefan

StefanS wrote on 9/14/2004, 7:19 PM

Because it's a one man operation, I'm leaning towards a wireless setup, possibly a lavalier. Though research suggests there are a few problems for such a setup.
Stefan

farss wrote on 9/14/2004, 8:35 PM

We've had no problems with lav mikes however we've had problems with any external mics on cameras without balanced audio in.
Only physical problems mind you and mostly user carelessness, like getting the minpin plug unplugged!
Careful monitoring with head phones is the answer but what I really don't like about going in thru the unbalanced minipin external mic is all your audio is coming in that way. With say a PD150 you can leave the on camera mic in one channel as a backup.

Bob.