(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best professional video accessories

The best answer is always finding someone who knows a LITTLE about what they're doing. Shaky video with bad sound is SO cringey to sit through - so give quality some thought.

As for what to use for cameras... Low light is your enemy. If your wedding and reception are outside, before sundown, cheap camcorders will work great... but if you'll be getting into darker spots, they're going to look terrible quickly.

Honestly modern cell phones spend a LOT of research dollars figuring out how to get the best video quality even in the hands of inexperienced users. If you're NOT going to have someone experienced using pro level gear, I think cell phones will do better than anything you buy for less than $500 on Amazon. You can google and find some examples of wedding videos shot on iphones that look positively amazing (Though, full disclosure, those amazing videos are usually shot by a pro who knows exactly how to get amazing footage from them. There's still a lot that can be improved with knowledge and experience, of course.)

If you want to get super smooth footage, you can get gimbals that will hold a phone perfectly steady, for not a lot of money.

So that's my recommendation - buy something like this - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BHCC3BV and put the best phone you can on it. Have someone practice for several hours with it to learn how to use it to the best of their ability (watch some youtube videos) and put them in the center aisle, around the third row! That's maximizing your chances of success!

All of that said - before you go that route - ASK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER. All the time I'm shooting photos for someone that wants video, but can't afford it. If they think to ask me, I'll bring an extra professional camera and a really good microphone and I'll set that up in the back of the room for them. It's no replacement for a proper video filmed by an experienced videographer, but it does provide a good solid recording that they can rewatch... and I do that for free. Your photographer may be able to set their 'backup camera' on a tripod and hit record without charging you much for the small amount of effort! There's less security in that, and that's what I always tell people when I do it - "I'm not going to be standing there babysitting it unless you want to pay to have a videographer for that... so if your uncle bumps the off button... or someone knocks it to point at the wall... or stands in front of it... we won't get anything... but if you're okay with that risk and aren't holding me accountable for a service you're not paying for, I'm happy to do it for you.

The standard elgato may not be a great choice for twitch, since there is a ~2 second delay that can be a bit of an annoyance.

You basically need:
A capture card
GV-USB2 is pretty great quality for SD, but installing the drivers is entirely in japanese. They're pretty easy to figure out by just hitting random buttons and guessing, but people have made guides for "hit these buttons in this order". Once you set it up, it'll work perfectly from then on. The Dazzle DVC 100 used to be a pretty common choice, but I think the GV-USB2 is honestly better (I have a Dazzle, and even I'll admit the GV-USB2 is better).

As far as a splitter/switch, unpowered splitter cables would be fine, such as these plugged into the side of your NES, just make sure you get RCA cables that match up to go to your TV and to your capture card. If you want to get the best picture quality, a powered splitter/switch like this one will give a slightly better picture and will give you room to hook up more consoles as well (since it is a switch as well).

As for software, the standard entry-level streaming software is OBS, and for free software, it honestly is pretty great. If you want to spend money, there's some other good stuff out there, but OBS does everything you'd probably want to do. If you want something a bit better for a timer than your iPhone, try LiveSplit. You can setup splits to keep track of your pace (though considering how short the WR is, just a basic timer is probably fine, this will just allow you to let people watching on youtube or twitch see your timer too).

If you need any help otherwise, let me know.

> Will this camera do justice?

No. It has a maximum resolution of 720p and no mic jack for external sound. With a $150 budget you can do better. As I see it, you have two options.

OPTION 1 - SMART PHONE

Your phone is probably a better video camera than a Coolpix. If you have an iPhone, you can get started by downloading FiLMiC Pro ([$8 from iTunes] (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/filmic-pro/id436577167?mt=8&at=1000l8mT)). If you have an Android phone, you can download [Cinema FV-5, which is $2.49 right now on Google Play] (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flavionet.android.cinema.pro&hl=en).

These apps will allow you to control aspect ratio, white balance, exposure, resolution and frame rates - turning your phone into a pretty good approximation of a camcorder.

FiLMiC Pro was used for this feature film shot entirely on iPhones:

• • [Tangerine - Red Band Trailer] (https://youtu.be/ALSwWTb88ZU) (NSFW)
    
    This one used FiLMiC Pro, iPhones and a jib:
    
    
• ["ALL UP TO YOU!" - iPhone 5 Movie] (https://vimeo.com/50438974)
  
  This was shot with a Nexus 5 and Cinema FV-5:
  
  
• [Cinema FV-5 demo reel] (https://youtu.be/b4vQdo0Me9k)
  
  You can get an [Amazon Basics video tripod for $74.99] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CEH7VG8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00CEH7VG8&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) and a [$6.95 phone to tripod adapter] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OS9E6AO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00OS9E6AO&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) to steady your shots.
  
  Without a tripod or stabilizer, handheld cellphone video can be hard to watch.
  
  You should also invest in a directional mic or a lavalier for better sound than you can get from the built-in mic.
  
  Directional Mic
  
  I recommend the [$59 Rode VideoMic Me] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=191757965884&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) (last one available at this price on eBay - otherwise it is [$69 on Amazon] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018KIJGU8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B018KIJGU8&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)).
  
  Here is the Rode promo video with example audio: https://youtu.be/1-x8MVngwaI
  
  Lavalier
  
  If you want to get the mic even closer to your talent, you can get a [decent lavalier for $20.99] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011EXBCMQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B011EXBCMQ&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20). You can either plug it into the phone you're using for video - or you can download an app (e.g. [Rode Rec, $5.99 for iOS] (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/r-de-rec/id528642521?mt=8&at=1000l8mT) or [Smart Voice Recorder] (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.andrwq.recorder&hl=en) or [Skyro Voice Recorder] (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.triveous.recorder&hl=en) for Android), record a "scratch" audio track with your camera's internal microphone and sync the audio from the phone to your camera's audio track in the edit, as seen here (example is for the Rode SmartLav, but it makes the point for the entire lav/phone category):
  
  http://youtu.be/P2RIFZOGMZo
  
  OPTION 2 - USED POINT AND SHOOT
  
  If you don't have a smartphone with a decent camera, I recommend a [used Panasonic FZ200 for $149.95 from B&H] (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/801306639-USE/panasonic_dmc_fz200k_lumix_dmc_fz200_digital_camera.html).
  
  This is a much better camera than the Nikon and can record at full 1080p high definition (instead of the Nikon's 720p resolution) - and up to 60 frames per second at full HD - which you can slow down in your editing program to create smooth slow motion. If you want really impressive slow motion, it can record 120 fps at 720p.
  
  It also has a constant aperture f2.8 zoom - so you can use longer focal lengths in a low light situation without losing light.
  
  You can add a [$2.50 2.5mm to 3.5mm mic input adapter] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QU3JN4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000QU3JN4&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) and beg, borrow or steal enough money for a [high quality lav mic] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012Z698ZE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B012Z698ZE&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) for better sound.
  
  [Here] (https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipMUVmZz9epMQzyhkcbj-WwNyfbKAj7IB7s95S72FVt2ye5iASr58meoV13V4oOKEg/photo/AF1QipMOE90ytTxRuMmG55MMyI3v94YP7a1c9col3gjG?key=QVBFNUhxc29RQjNMdkxLVWFwUjJMU3EyaVJZelh3) is a picture of my FZ150 (the FZ200's predecessor) with the Hosa adapter and an external shotgun mic on the hot shoe. These are very capable little cameras.
  
  Here is the image quality the FZ200 can produce:
  
  Documentary
  
  
• [The Young Dick Tiger- short doc by Avner Levona] (https://player.vimeo.com/video/57346685) (please select 720p)
  
  Travel and Nature
  
  
• [Cliousclat, village potier de Drôme by cineliv] (https://player.vimeo.com/video/134014033)
  
  
• [The Music of Nature by Sandeep Benny] (https://player.vimeo.com/video/88135509)
  
  
• [Spring, Nature's rebirth by cineliv] (https://player.vimeo.com/video/128525060)
  
  Slow Motion
  
  
• [Several] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/65307967) (please select 1080p)
  
  
• [Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ200 Beautiful 120fps High-Speed and Fantastic Effects by bluesniff] (https://youtu.be/Lp_pmgCsmco) (please watch at 720p)
  
  
• [Freestyle Football isn't a Sport, it's a Lifestyle] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/82785006)
  
  Either of these options will fit within your budget and be better than a Nikon Coolpix.
  
  Hope this is helpful, good luck with your short film and best of the holidays!

So there's a million ways to do this. First, I'll start by saying that the two hallmarks of amateur video are:

1. Zero stabilization
   
2. Crap audio
   
   So to remedy that, you want:
   
   
3. Great stabilization
   
4. Excellent audio
   
   The first thing I'd recommend is to get a solid camera system setup. If you just want to make some fun short films without spending thousands of dollars, I'd suggest one of two kits:
   
   
5. A DJI Osmo Pocket camera system
   
6. A smartphone camera system
   
   The Osmo system ($400) is a tiny camera mounted to an electronic handheld stabilizer; it lets you get nice, smooth motion shots & can also be mounted to a tripod (various aftermarket systems are available for it).
   
   https://www.dji.com/osmo-pocket
   
   This setup runs about $400, plus the cost of a tripod. Here's a nice starter video tripod for $140 with a fluid head, which allows the camera to be panned & tilted smoothly:
   
   https://www.amazon.com/Cayer-BV30L-Professional-Mid-Level-Camcorder/dp/B0784CWMP4/
   
   Alternatively, most smartphones shoot 1080p video these days. In addition, you can tweak them out with additional software & hardware for enhanced functionality. I highly recommend the Filmic Pro software, which is available for both iOS & Android: ($15 or $20)
   
   https://www.filmicpro.com/
   
   If you have an iPhone or a Google Pixel 2/2XL, you can buy an anamorphic lens ($150), which gives you that nice widescreen look. That's a nice step up over the Osmo, as using say an iPhone allows you tap the screen to lock focus & also use a neat glass lens to get a great picture effect.
   
   https://moondoglabs.com/collections/lenses
   
   As far as smartphone stabilizers go, there are a variety available. I have a Smove gimbal & really like it:
   
   https://smove.video/
   
   Zhiyun has a good one on Amazon as well:
   
   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BHCC3BV
   
   So either the Osmo or smartphone approach gives you a great camera, plus an electric gimbal stabilizer, plus a tripod for fix shots & for doing pans & tilts, and some tricks for using it like a mini crane by tilting it & stuff. For editing video (on a computer), Blackmagic has a version of their pro-grade DaVinci Resolve 16 software available for free: (editing, color correction, etc.)
   
   https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/
   
   As far as audio goes, it's pretty simple: use an external mic, and for vocals, keep it within 12" of the person's mouth. People generally either use a mic on a boom stick, or else a lav mic that you can clip to a lapel or whatever. You typically want to capture vocals & some environmental sounds, and then do foley (adding sound effects like putting a V8 engine on a Honda Civic, haha) & add some music & soundtrack stuff. There is software available for syncing up separate, standalone mics. If you have the budget available, the Zoom H2n is a great starter microphone:
   
   https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-H2N-H2n-Handy-Recorder/dp/B005CQ2ZY6/
   
   I use a Redhead windscreen on mine:
   
   http://www.redheadwindscreens.com/
   
   You can get cheap lapel mics too, for as low as $30 or so, that do a pretty decent job to capture people talking. But as far as making basic short films go, that's a pretty good ultra-budget setup...you get good video quality, good stabilization, and good audio recordings.
   
   The next step is adding some lighting into the mix, which really helps a ton. If you'd like to play around with things, simulation is available, from a variety of sources. One I really like is called Cine Tracer, which is a cinematography simulator for lighting etc., sold through the Steam gaming store:
   
   https://store.steampowered.com/app/904960/Cine_Tracer/
   
   Anyway, that's just a very, very basic introduction to some tools that can get you some great-looking stuff right off the bat. The minimum would just be sticking a smartphone on like a $30 tripod & shooting from there. A step up would be a gimbal system & separate audio system as discussed above, and perhaps a basic LED lighting kit. If you have a few grand to play with, they make some really stellar cameras in that pricerange now, such as this 6K camera for $2,500:
   
   https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagicpocketcinemacamera
   
   Great audio is also surprisingly inexpensive (relatively speaking, in terms of film equipment pricing). One of the first production-grade pieces of equipment I purchased was the Sanken COS-11D lav mic, which is used on a lot of movies & TV shows, and ran just shy of $500. That may sound like a lot, but an 8K RED Monstro digital cinematography camera starts at over $50k, so audio isn't that bad in comparison.
   
   So a big part of it begins with budget & what you plan on doing. If you're just goofing around with friends, get a decent fluid-head tripod & use your smartphone & Filmic Pro to make some cool stuff. Save up & add some lighting, and maybe a gimbal, and some audio equipment. There's so many things you can do super-cheap & still make it look cool!

This is a good place to start. Here are a few more thoughts/suggestions:

• Check the contents of the Lexar card, mine came with a mini card reader that works well.
  
• The gopro battery will be the limiting factor when continuously recording, you should test the maximum recording time before your wedding. Use the same settings and try to recreate the temperature it will be running at during the wedding.
  
• I highly suggest a product like this to give you peace of mind when you are using your gopro in the water. There are several cheap options on amazon.
  
• One thing that nobody has mentioned in this thread yet is sound. If you want the dialogue from your ceremony to come through the gopro will have to be very close. If there is wind it will be even more difficult to hear you. You'll get the best results if the case is not on.
  
• If any of your guests own gopros I'm sure they will be bringing them. See if they will let you borrow them for the wedding and pull the footage off of them afterwards. This way you can have multiple angles and make a really nice video later on. If he's up to it you can have the officiant wear a chest mounted gopro which will give a nice up close perspective and probably capture the best sound. You can get creative with any other angles.
  
• This flexible tripod is one of my favorite accessories. It's so versatile and can be mounted to just about anything. There are cheaper alternatives on amazon, I chose this one because it has a level (it was also $20 at the time I bought it).
  
• The Suction Cup is also a very useful tool for mounting the gopro. I suggest getting the gopro brand because it is sturdy and the suction cup is very strong.
  
• I would leave most of the settings alone. There is a ton of information on this subject and it can be overwhelming. My two cents are to use 2.7K resolution wide for most everything. If you want slow motion use 1080p at 60 FPS.
  
• One of the biggest problems with most people's videos are that they are shakey as hell. Try to keep the camera steady if possible. If you want to expand your budget a bit you can purchase a gimbal which will give you very very good results. Understandably those are out of most peoples' budgets and there are other techniques you can use to keep the camera steady by using the pole that will give decent results.
  
• If your gopro is in a cool/cold hotel room and you take it outside into the hot/humid air fog will condense on the lens. Once the lens warms up the fog will go away.
  
• Make sure you play with your gopro before hand so that you get a good feel for it and you can get any questions out of the way a head of time.
  
  Feel free to ask any questions you might still have. Also, congratulations and good luck!

Hi /u/captainmomo - and congratulations on your decision! FYI - you can still get a [new GH3 for $940] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=291102268564&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) [Referral Link] - that may fit your budget better than the current prices at the big online stores.

To answer your specific questions:

> 1. How do I get the highest quality? I love when my videos look sharp and clear as day. Do I use 1080p 60fps All-Intra? Can it even do that?

Yes, it can do that, but I recommend 1080/60p .MOV 50mbps IPB - high quality, easy to edit, easy to conform to 30fps or 24fps for slo-mo.

72mbps ALL-I has been known to introduce artifacts.

>2. What is the best glass/lens that I can buy for ~400? I'll be doing vloggish type scenarios mostly, with interviews. So I guess it needs to be versatile, but not something crazy like telephoto.

For $400, if you want autofocus, I would get a [$199 Sigma 19mm f2.8] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007F7G6WW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007F7G6WW&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) and a [$199 Sigma 30mm f2.8] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0076F3RS4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0076F3RS4&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) - these are great lenses for the money.

This film, for example, was shot with the GH3 and the Sigma 30mm f2.8 (wide shots are the SLR Magic 12mm): http://vimeo.com/65970456

If you plan to shoot manual, I recommend a [third party FD to MFT speed booster for $100] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=281251933552&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) plus $300 worth of Canon FD lenses (starting with something like this [$50 Canon FD 50mm f1.8] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FK1NO8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004FK1NO8&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20)) [Referral Links].

>3. Should I go with the Yeti Pro in my situation, or a clip on? And, if so, which one should I get? The clip on with a shotgun mic for the camera seems like a better option.

I would get a [$44 Giant Squid lavalier] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HWMG44U/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HWMG44U&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20), and, when you can afford it, a [$330 Sennheiser MKE600 shotgun] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B0YPAYQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B0YPAYQ&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20), a [$15 shock mount] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I3Y3A52/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00I3Y3A52&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) plus a [$17.50 Hosa MIT-156 XLR to 3.5mm adapter] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002IAJ2O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0002IAJ2O&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) [Referral Links]. Don't forget the [headphones] (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/755659-REG/Senal_SMH_1000_STUDIO_MONITOR_HEADPHONES.html).

Here's a picture of my GH3 on the tripod with a pro XLR mic mounted on the shock mount and the headphones plugged in. In this case, it's my omni handheld mic:

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Q8OAPrPM-18/U1RWQuefRAI/AAAAAAAAIsU/1dgWocEwd_A/w724-h543-no/P1120725.JPG

Here it is with the used pro Audio Technica AT835b I found on eBay for less than $100:

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-16bWy-a-wvU/UQoG3YIkrYI/AAAAAAAAGfY/TtIqxhaB-b4/w724-h543-no/P1110864.JPG

And please don't buy a prosumer shotgun with a 3.5mm unbalanced output (e.g., the Rode Videomic series). When you decide to take the mic off the camera and put it on a boom with a long cable, you're more likely to get RF interference from a prosumer mic than from a pro mic with balanced XLR output.

Again, hope this is helpful!

Bill

For something that small, an AIO camera would likely be best:

http://www.banggood.com/Eachine-TX03-Super-Mini-025mW50mW200mW-Switchable-AIO-5_8G-72CH-VTX-600TVL-13-Cmos-FPV-Camera-p-1104884.html?rmmds=search

The Tx03 is well regarded, supports every channel you could want, and plenty of power output.
A bit smaller option is the inductrix style ones - less power, but even smaller and a touch more durable: https://www.amazon.com/Crazepony-Camera-Transmitter-Splitter-Inductrix/dp/B01LYAW6S6

As for monitor - couple options. Lots of people like the immersiveness of the goggle style rather than monitor. If you agree, the EV800 for $55 are a good start, but the VR D2 at $80 are an even better deal with diversity and a DVR to record your flights.


If you really want a monitor, IMO the best option is the Eachine LCD5802 - its not as cheap as some others (that can be found for as little as $60), but has a great OSD, great battery, DVR, dual receivers, etc.

You mention a voltage read out - that starts to get more expensive very quickly, as you need something with an OSD (larger, more expensive cameras) or a flight controller with OSD and separate VTx.

A question before I start; will you be using an editor to sync things up in post or would you rather take things together(audio and video) and have them all sorted out at one time?

Here's a list of things that I think would be beneficial, but not an encompassing list. If you're trying to go for a cheap list that could still get the job done, I find that these items have decent reviews on Amazon and websites and they do offer a good starting point for a budget.

1. The Camera: Canon EOS M2 ($250)
   
   I feel like the Canon EOS M2 would be a strong contender. It is actually a mirrorless camera that has the same sensor as that of the more expensive T3i. Due to it's lack of popularity with photographers due to the slower autofocus, it has seen multiple price reductions. Although it contains autofocusing issues in the photography modes, it's video modes are what really helps this camera out. You have a good starting lens with an 18-55mm lens, which may be wide enough for that room at 18, but it could even be close enough for a closer image. You can even be more technical and add in other features. Also this camera has a direct mic-in line for use of an external mic, like the shotgun mic below.
   
   
2. The Audio: Zoom H1 Portable Audio Recorder $99 OR TAKSTAR SGC-598 $29.99
   
   Audio is key here. You want to be able to hear the pastor as he gives sermons, so you have two general models. You can place the portable recorder closer to him, giving you crisp audio at a very minimal distance, or you can attach a shotgun microphone to the camera and pick it up from a distance further away. The only thing is, would you rather have the camera do it all for you or would you rather have to sync up the audio in editing? The Zoom mic is nice because you can purchase one of these ($21.38) and mic the pastor up before service to give a very crisp lapel audio.
   
   
3. The SD Cards: Sandisk 64GB 80mb/s ($22.49)
   
   This should be a given.
   
   
4. Power and Adapters: AC Adapter ($15.50) OR 2-Pack Spare Batteries($28.99)
   
   You can choose to have it either plugged in the whole time during recording, or you can have it run off of batteries. Your personal preference.
   
   
5. Tripod: AmazonBasics 60" tripod ($23.49)
   
   You requested a tripod for the ease of use.
   
   Given that you live in the US, after taxes, you're essentially looking at a $500 setup for all of that equipment. That may not be the best equipment for people or even be suggested by anyone else here, but that is just my $0.02.
   
   
   Source: Use the EOS M1 and most of the gear listed.

Hey! This rig might be a little out of your budget, but it is way way worth it. All metal construction, breaks down pretty small so it's easy to carry, and if you outgrow it and need something fancier, you can still use all the 15mm bars that you have from this rig. When I ordered they include a few bonus items too, not sure if they're still doing that. You'll have to buy a Follow Focus on top of this, which will definitely put you above your budget, but I'm telling you... It's worth it. With camera equipment, if you don't buy nice, you'll buy it twice. So even on a low budget it's worth to scrape together some more money to get one that's nice enough to last, and versatile enough to still be useful if you upgrade.

Seriously though, being all metal is a big advantage. You see all those plastic connectors on those other rigs you posted? That should be a HUGE red flag for you, because plastic breaks easily, especially when it's holding parts together. The added weight also makes it easier to smoothly operate the camera. But mainly, it won't break on you.

I'd buy the GX85.

I'd then purchase a Sennheisner MKE600 along with some type of recorder, maybe a Tascam DR-40. It's an expensive microphone but very well worth it. Good audio and OK video looks a lot more professional than a video with great video and crap audio.

Put the rest of your money into a good tripod, computer, media, boompole, etc. You'll be in great shape with that combo... the camera has IBIS so you can even go handheld with good results!

I would start with 2 prime lens:

1. Panasonic 25mm F/1.7. I'm sure you're heard of the legendary 50mm lens. This is the equivalent for micro 4/3 camera.
   
   
2. Panasonic 14mm F/2.5. A wider angle lens is a good addition depending on what scene you're shooting.
   
   
   Then you need to be able to record high quality audio. Typically cameras don't have the best microphones.
   
   

• The Rode VideoMic Pro is a good quality option to improve your sound.
  
  
• Another option is the Tascam DR-40. This is a standalone audio recorder with its own microphones. Tascam's a good brand for these, and you can use them with other microphones, or lavalier microphones if you choose to use those.
  
  
  Finally, one big factor that separates professional-looking video from amateur is smooth motion. I would get a Glidecam. These have a bit of a learning curve to them, but once you get used to it you'll get some amazing shots.
  
  
  Good luck with everything. You've got a good camera so there should be nothing keeping you from getting great shots!
  
  Edit: formatting
  
  
  

Earlier this year I consulted to do a very similar setup with the Curiosity.com podcast. The premise was for a host and a guest or two with a Skype-in possibility. The main host also works at a Chicago WGN radio personality and was open to a higher-end solution while not totally blowing out the budget. In the end we came up with an initial office studio layout in the $2k range. One thing he mitigated was room echo/reverb and office noise through using room placement and dynamic microphones.

Here is a picture of his original setup

Here is a picture of the acoustic treatment needed

Also, his equipment purchased was for 2 main hosts and a third guest (if necessary) and ran about $2,000. To get a 3rd or 4th microphone in place would be another $750ish a piece for the microphone, shock mount, pop filter, boom arm, Microphone digital processor and headphones.

Here is his list of equipment:

(1) Mackie ProFx8v2

(1) Zoom H6

(2) DBX 286s

(2) Electro Voice re320 package from BSW Warehouse

(2) Rode PSA-1 Boom Arms

(1) 6U Audio Rack

(2) Sony MDR-7506 Headphones

(1) Behringer HA400 Headphone Amp

Plus cables.

Each additional microphone would be a re320 package, a Rode PSA-1 Boom Arm, a DBX 286s and a Sony MDR-7506.

The Mixer can output a stereo track to a Laptop / PC which you can use to record a stereo track on your recording software of choice. The Zoom H6 offers the capability to record up to 6 channels either through the mixer using inserts / aux sends / subs.

Personally I'd swap out the Rode PSA-1 for the Heil PL-2T Boom Arm but either should get the job done.

Also, if I was advising him today I would tell him to forget the Mackie ProFX8v2 mixer AND the Zoom H6 AND the Behringer HA400 and buy a Zoom L12 Livetrack Recorder instead. In fact my Better Podcast cohost recently filmed a video review of the Zoom L12 if you want to check that out.

Finally, the re320 was the microphone he was used to from Chicago WGN radio but it would have been the one I recommended anyway. There are others to choose from but the re320 is the most forgiving for all voices.

For a more mobile setup I would recommend the Sennheiser MD-46 interview microphone which you could place on a desk stand with a On-Stage MY-325 Shock Mount. If you have the Zoom H-6 or Zoom L-12 you could easily take that setup from room to room. In fact I just used a similar setup earlier this year at GenCon as I think the sound turned out pretty good.

As for editing software there are plenty of opinions on that. But since this is business based you might consider getting some Adobe licenses. It will contain audio and video editing software as well as the PhotoShop suite as well. Personally I'm transitioning from Audacity to Movie Studio Platinum 14.0 and Reaper/Hindenburg Journalist.

All of this is professional gear but if you really want a no kidding pro setup I'd contact the guys at BSW Warehouse. They will give you options in the $10k and $100k ranges.

Perhaps the most important and expensive is making sure you have a good computer or laptop that can handle streaming. Hopefully you or a friend in the scene can make that happen, 'cause that will be the biggest expense.

In terms of actual stream equipment, I'm going to assume you want the cheaper options:

1. Capture Cards
   
   

• Dazzle: https://www.amazon.com/Dazzle-DVD-Recorder-VHS-Converter/dp/B00EAS14KI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481658680&sr=8-1&keywords=Dazzle+DVC+100
  
  
• Elagto: https://www.amazon.com/Elgato-Video-Capture-analog-iPhone/dp/B0029U2YSA/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1481658918&sr=8-7&keywords=elgato
  
  You will also want a crt that has an output area in the back or a seperate device called a splitter!
  
  
  

2. Microphone:
   
   

• Snowball: https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Snowball-Condenser-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B006DIA77E/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1481658986&sr=1-2&keywords=snowball+mic
  
  I super recommend this, $50 for a good quality mic that is durable and super easy to set up. Since it is an open mic it will capture extra noise aside from a commentators but I think starting hear is best!
  
  
  

3. Stream Software (Free):
   
   

• OBS
  https://obsproject.com/
  
  
• Xsplit (extra $5 fee, but not necessary to access base features)
  https://www.xsplit.com/
  
  
  
  Old, but this thread can be helpful, even though it's for melee. Has a bunch of products with prices and quality tests.
  
  https://smashboards.com/threads/beginners-guide-to-capturing-and-recording-melee-footage.298260/
  
  
  
  For people who just want to record matches for cheap, there are a variety of recording cards, such as:
  
  
• Ezcap https://www.amazon.com/EZCAP-TV-EzGrabber-Capture-Converter-Windows/dp/B003YGJLWU
  
  
  If you have any questions, lemme know! Stream shit is complicated at first, but once you get into the groove a lot of it makes sense. :)
  

Thanks a lot for all your help - that video you made for showing that house was excellent, it came off to me that the video was nicer than the house (in a good way) - interesting how some real estate companies do it.

I browsed Amazon for some Gimbals and in general yeah they're really pricey. There are some semi-promising looking around $2-300 which I think I could stomach.

Maybe something like this: https://www.amazon.com/OFFICIAL-ROXANT-camera-stabilizer-Smartphone/dp/B00K67QUQK/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1480745633&sr=1-5&keywords=dslr+gimbal would be a good place to start?

1. Turn off auto-focus. Set it manually then hit your mark. To get more stuff in focus close your aperture and add more light.
   
   
2. Your video is missing a hook. Social today need something in the first 3 seconds to grab attention. Your action starts at 11 sec.
   I'm assuming the black at the beginning was to help sync up your snap with the music snap.
   
   
3. Audio - You can take your current VO track into premiere then right-click and "Edit clip in adobe audition". After that you will need to highlight an area without any speech. You are defining the "silent" portion. So anything from that take where you weren't talking for like 4 seconds will work. Highlight that then hit Shift+P to "capture noise print". That will define the waveform that needs to be reduced. Then unselect that portion and hit Command+Shift+P which will use your print to do an overall noise reduction. You HAVE to do this with each new audio file you're working on. If you shot all the VO at once, then you're fine with the same print, but it's using that ambient atmosphere to define the reduction. Don't use a print from your VO to reduce noise on your performance shot. Always record 1 min of natural sound in each location you shoot to help with this and other audio editing.
   
   
4. After reduction then up the volume. not the other way around. Increase the good. Don't double the static.
   
   
5. If you want a great mic built for this and have $$ to spend buy this one. If you want a more affordable option buy this one.
   
   
6. When recording audio on your DSLR, turn the microphone's setting as high as it will go and camera's mic level as low as it will go. The idea is you want the microphone to do the volume boosting not the camera's pre-amp. Adjust as necessary for the shoot. +20 db on the Rode with 1 tick in camera gives you a lot cleaner audio than -20 db on the Rode with 100% in camera.
   
   
7. Your performance needs a wider shot. Either back up from the camera or get a wider lens. What camera are you using? Canon T6i? What lenses? If you're not happy with the framing then shoot another performance.
   
   
8. You're not quite looking down the barrel of the lens. Do you have cue cards or a basic topic form on the side? Memorize it and do the take staring straight into the void.
   
   
9. You have competing color temperatures in your VO. Very red left and a blue right. Find out what's making that red and flag it off. White balance properly for the blue.
   
   
10. Music. make sure you own the rights to it. If it's stock, purchase the rights. You don't want to have to pull all your videos later because of licensing issues.
    
    
11. There are a couple logos. If you're not concerned so be it. I'd learn a basic point track in after effects and attach a blurred adjustment layer with a mask.
    
    
12. You're lacking graphics of any kind. I've watched this four times and don't know who you are, your name, name of the channel, name of this segment, or any of your social handles that I can subscribe to if interested.
    
    
13. You have a lot of black frames in between cuts. Not just as transitions from segments... It might be a stylistic choice, but it reads as glitches. As if you shifted your media in your timeline and didn't correct the edit.
    

Appologies in advance if this is not the best place to ask this, but I could use some help. I have recently started to make use of my DSLR (a Nkon 3200, btw) for filming, and I've been looking at stabilisation setups. I've found three that look good, but I'[m having a hard time deciding between them, so I thought I'd see if any of you lovely people have any comments that might help me. My camera weighs in at around 700-850g, depending on the lens I'm using.

These are the three that I've narrowed it down to, any advice would be most appreciated.

Fotowelt

Koolertron Mini

Neewer

Alright, its a start but as you said, you need a stable image. I would recommend getting a gimbal for your camera. Its basically magic and makes all of your shots super smooth. Depending on your budget/camera, something like this could work.
Also recording in 60fps and bringing the final production back down to 30fps will make everything smoother.

If you need any help with editing or perhaps an intro or some graphics, I can whip something up for a few buckaroos. ;)

Thanks! Yeah, just got a new steadicam as a toy and was eager to play with it. I am a Malick fan, so thanks again for that compliment. What car at the end? ... If you mean that noise, that's actually the waves. It was a crazy windy day. Lol I hope that's it, and I'm not somehow missing a car.

If you want something a bit "time-proof" that won't become irrelevant and last you years right now I'd say the new Lumix GH5 that shoots 4k in camera, a good zoom lens for video, a Rode fuzzy mic, and spend the rest in extra batteries and the biggest, fastest SD cards you can find for cheap. Honestly right now I don't think you could find anything better in budget. You might look into the Sony A7sII but a good lens will run you more than it would for the lumix, battery life is worse. I'd check both setups locally and see what you like best and whatever leaves you some spare budget for the mic/batteries/SDs. And if you manage a cheap chinese LED video light might come in handy too. Hope this helps. :)

It's not even about how far you'll fly. It's about the reliability of the video feed.

P2 Vision Plus and P3S both use WiFi for the video link. This is unreliable and can easily have interference. A reliable video feed is very important to maintain your orientation at even moderate distances of a few hundred feet. At those ranged the drone becomes very hard to spot in the air with line-of-sight to determine orientation.

It's not just "range" you are paying for, you are paying for a video feed that won't be interfered with by any passing hotspot.

I have the P2V+ and it's served me quite well, but every close call I've had was due to video feed failure when trying to do some tight shooting. Mind you i wasn't even very far, maybe 100ft out and 60ft up.

If you can get the P3S for some crazy good sale price it would be an incredible first aerial photography unit. Just know you might very quickly grow out of it's safe capabilities. The P3A would be a better long term purchase if you see yourself doing this for a while.

----

All that said... If you don't have experience with other drones (i.e. Quadcopters/HexCopters), or the headaches of bringing them on a long trip. I'd seriously consider just buying a hand held gimbal unit. Many can be attached to long booms to get incredible steady shots like drones. You'll get much longer filming time, have much mess/lighter equipment to carry, and much much safer to use close to people.

If you already have a current GoPro the FeiyuTech G4S will get you that "drone-like" footage for under $300, then add a few extenstion sticks and a remote and you are still under the cost of a P3S. http://www.amazon.com/Feiyu-FY-G4S-3-Axis-Gimbal-Joystick/dp/B016S282A8/

If you don't already have a gopro and are looking for 4K ... checkout the DJI OSMO. Around $600 with an extension - http://www.amazon.com/DJI-OSMO-NA-Handheld-Stabilized/dp/B016JTHIM8/

The G7/14-42mm lens you linked to is a great deal right now. You should be in excellent shape if you go in that direction.

Also, don't overlook audio! The built-in camera microphones are universally terrible. To start with, invest in a rode videomic, rode videomicro, or a Movo VXR10. Eventually, you'll probably want to look at lav mics (the kind you see clipped onto news anchors).

Lastly, getting professional results out of a camera requires experience. The camera won't do the work for you no matter how nice it is. Hit up youtube for some corporate video-making tutorials and you'll be off to a good start.

Good luck!

I know that I have been taken more seriously when using actual equipment instead of DIY things that I made that practically do the same thing.


Also last February I went to San Francisco to do some corporate videos for a tech start up. We normally would have just used our 5d and 7d because the videos were just interviews in front of a green screen that were going to be broadcast on the internet and probably never seen at a size larger than you would see on YouTube. We didn't want them to ask us "we flew you to San Fransisco to film our video and you brought a picture camera?" so we rented a FS700 just for the looks. When we showed up with that they were impressed and thought it was pretty cool and it made us look better.


At the same time - the pocket camera looks like it is going to be a better camera than most DSLRs. If you do use you could explain to your clients that you have this amazing camera that was designed to be portable and lite weight so that you can get shots other cameras can get while still outperforming other professional cameras because it shoots 12-bit lossless compressed CinemaDNG 1080 HD. Focusing on the advantages of it being small will prime them for it being small. Also that last part talking about the recording will probably just make them think "words I don't know - that must mean it is good."


Another thing that you could do is buy a cheap rail system, follow focus, and matte box (like this one ). The matte box won't do anything for you (it is always nice to have a follow focus) but it will look your camera look more professional. Is it lame that you have to "pimp" your camera so that people take you seriously? Yes - especially when the pocket camera is such an amazing camera. Is it worth it to "pimp" you camera and put on appearances for clients because if you didn't they wouldn't hire you? Yes.

I'm a cinematographer and editor! :D

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FYW8DNU/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_101gtb1SSAHGW

Haha lol jk I know none of y'all are going to gift that lol :P

This would be tremendously nice-

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DRGQETA/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_z51gtb1HHF9AF

Also jk(:

(being a cinematographer is expensive :(. )

Pretty sure it's nearly identical to this one:

http://www.amazon.com/SUTEFOTO-Portable-Handheld-Stabilizer-Panasonic/dp/B00P92DLQO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426561206&sr=8-1&keywords=sutefoto+stabilizer

I just received it. It's all metal construction and easy to dial in with the adjustments. It's pretty great for the price.

The 600D is acceptable for hobby stuff like this, especially if you hack it with Magic Lantern. http://www.magiclantern.fm/

The H1 does not come with a lavaliere mic but it does pair well with them. This is a well-regarded inexpensive lav to start with: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012Z698ZE/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_2_w

There are a number of techniques used to isolate lav mics from your movement, such as looping the wire or gaff-taping it to your skin under your shirt. The clothes-brushing isn't as much a problem as you might suspect though, especially in a piece-to-camera with limited movement happening.

His head is VERY near the top of the frame. If I were shooting that, I'd have a shotgun mic on a boom just outside the top of the frame, maybe 8-10" away from his mouth. It is not likely the the mic is mounted to the camera. You could indeed rig a Zoom H1 on a boom and use it in this manner, though controlling it would be a little awkward - using the H1 with a separate mic is preferred in this case.

Don't wait on having the perfect gear and the perfect technique - it can cripple you if you let it. Make something NOW with what you have today, then build on that foundation.

Yeah probably not the best for professional people, but I've actually been asked a lot about it by others because they thought it was pretty cool(not just measly wannabe indie filmmakers like me, but people that own their own production companies and do important things in my state) and when I got it, it was only around 30 bucks. It's worked out great and my clients have liked the work I've shot with it.

Is this the one you're talking about?


Edit: Also stealing your idea to add my YouTube channel to my flair :D

Parts List

Old telephone ringer box

RaspberryPi

Nixie tube vfdclock from ebay
or from these guys

Powered USB hub

Amazon USB speakers

PIR sensor (to turn on nixie tubes at night)

IR receiver/sender

GPIO buttons (they are pretty cheap, next time I'd use these. Thanks /u/John_Barlycorn for the link/idea!

old sony ps2 remote - I chose this remote because they are cheap, built solid and are in brand new shape (no one used them as a remote) and have easy LIRC support

USB mic


Edit:
forgot the pics!

Edit2: Linked everything

Your camera is fine, you can use that to shoot video. Looking at the specs it doesn't seem to have a mic input. You might try doing a few bit of test footage to see how the sound comes out. If its not that great you could think about getting a separate audio recorder something like the zoom h4n (this will mean syncing the sound at edit time you can do this by ear and eye or use a plug-in like pluraleyes. A good tripod is also advisable. If you get in to doing hand held stuff it might be worth getting one of those camera rigs off Amazon something like this http://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-RIG-Follow-Focus-Counterweight/dp/B005UF3G2Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419848204&sr=8-1&keywords=camera+rig Unless you have load of $ then you can go for something a bit less shit :D. I have one of these and its not great quality but it really improves hand held shots.

Yeah! That was us lol. I love that little gimbal. Its this guy https://www.amazon.com/DJI-Phone-Camera-Gimbal-MOBILE/dp/B01KUX9VT2
Cheers!

I think a shotgun microphone should help here along with some blankets or acoustic treatment. You can pick up this shotgun microphone and some isolation to try and get that noise dampened. This will work if you are recording to a camera with a mic input, but if you don’t have a microphone input you can pick up this recorder which will also double as a recording interface. If you need to place your mic further away from your camera or recorder, this cord will give you some length to position it where you need. This is really nice if your camera is a few feet or more away from where you’ll be while shooting, as an added bonus the closer you place your microphone to your subject, the better it will pick sound and reject sounds you don’t want.

The shotgun mic should reject sound coming from the sides and pickup clear audio from the front. Place this close to your mouth and you’re good to go. I use a shotgun microphone to record voiceovers and videos at my desk because just like your place, it seems like my neighbors are always doing something loud. It’s useful to check your audio with some headphones to hear what background noise you might be picking up, then adjust.

If you’re still getting noise you’ll need to pick a time where you can record that you know to be more quiet. It’s a bit of a pain but unfortunately most home productions have to work around some sort of obstacle, just don’t let it keep you from making some videos!

https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Handheld-Stabilizer-Release-Cameras/dp/B00WUCRVD0/ref=sr_1_25?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1496169919&sr=1-25&keywords=Steadicam

I got this Neewer one. Its a good weight, its action is extremely smooth, and it is very easy to balance. However, I admit it has its flaws. For instance, its possible to bump into the bottom weights too hard and have them pushed out of place, which then requires a rebalance. But for my uses it works great. The nature of using gravity to stabilize the camera instead of motors really makes the camera seem like its flying. I just shot this quick little edit for my friend on exclusively that Steadicam and my Gh4+sigma lens: https://www.instagram.com/p/BUiQIODA1IE/?taken-by=houseofvoth
You can take a look if you want. I am also by no means an expert Steadicam op so I admit some user error is present in the video in terms of framing and what not haha.

I got an Eachine screen, works great, 3hr battery life w/ built in battery, can be powered by lipo as well, comes with cables for lipo, and a wall charger as well, built in DVR, has a sun shield and diversity. Also, it autoscans channels, and shows snow "static" instead of blue screens. Works great for me. https://www.amazon.com/EACHINE-LCD5802D-Monitor-Receiver-Battery/dp/B01ANOOJ3Q/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1501113689&sr=8-13-spons&keywords=eachine+diversity&psc=1

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71urFLFATzL._SL1200_.jpg

the one linked is to static. How much range of motion do you want?

• I have this one on my desk at work thejoyfactory $110
  
  
• I have this one on my bedstand at home bendyarm
  $ under 50
  
  Out of those 2, the joy factory one is much nicer.
  
  I am going to replace it with this combo though
  
  
• ipad mount $30
  
  
• plus mic arm $120
  
  Last option will give me probably 3 feet (it says 6, but it has to lose support past half way right) of range, plus height adjustability. You could probably go with cheaper mic boom arms but im ok with getting a good brand.
  
  

If your gear dont exceed 3kg, you could get the same as i did, the one from Neewer. it has the micro adjustment knobs you need, and is surprisingly well built, and even comes with a bag that is big enough to fit more than just the stabilizer. i would also suggest getting a wrist support bracer to ease the strain on your wrist from using it as well.

Damn, no mics or lights at all??? Ok let me see if I can do this sub 5 since someone who's not me will probably criticize this harshly by saying something like "are you sure you're ready to even buy a camera" or "you need to spend as much on all your equipment as you spend on your camera".

Here goes:

Camera:
Used Gh4 ~$800-850

Mir 37mm f2.8: ~50

Helios 44-2 58mm f2: ~35

OR Pentax 50mm F1.4: ~55

Used Lumix G 45-200m F4-F5.6 ~200

This tripod - ~$100

Lighting: (Beware this lighting setup is mainly good for controlled, smaller environments. I would get it to practice/learn how to light when you can afford a better kit)

This post about lighting was low budget enough - $150

Black and White Sheets/table cloths: ~35

Work Lights from Home Depot or Walmart (Halogen or LED not clamp): <$30

Audio:

Zoom H4n: ~$205

Look up how to make a diy boom pole: ~$35

MKE 600 - ~340

Some XLR cables $30

Headphones to check if you're peaking ~150

Editing:

Oh fuck, idk nothin bout computers, Maybe go to /r/buildapc or go simple:

iMac: ~1700

Accesories:

2 64gb SD Cards ~75

500 gb or 1tb Harddrive: 35/65

Batteries (you could probably get a battery grip, but id get two off brand batteries + a charger for now) ~ 35

ND Filter -

Polarizer

All this is about $4200 and with that extra grand you can buy a b camera like a gh2 or a gh3 or even a g7 all with lenses to boot!

If you have a tripod, you can downscale 4k to 1080 and smooth out all your shots, so no need for a ronin

E1: Also this post should've been in the Moronic Monday thread

E2: ALSO SHOUTS OUT /U/JJSUPER1 THE LIGHTING GOD WHOSE THREAD I LINKED AND I DIDNT EVEN KNOW BLESSED THIS THREAD TOO U LUCKY /U/CAVEDHARD

thanks for the tips!

Is this the gimbal you mentioned? https://www.amazon.com/3-Axis-Handheld-Gimbal-Cameras-Similar/dp/B00T32A0K6

Did you get the yi 4k? Any lack of software compatibility? (err, I guess it's just a bunch of avi or dvi files. just no gopro software).

That looks like a mean little point and shoot Canon! Probably great size to have on the slopes.

Do you mean that you literally ride filming with the gimbal in your pocket? wow!

Hooo boy. Everything on my WL is weird! But the top of the charts would be things like:

The Furby I'm a film student, and the Furby is for a shoot I'd like to do, whereupon one poor soul is chased by demon furbies.

The giant raptor statue is a big one. I put it on my WL purely to share it since it's life size, and because holy crap you can own a giant raptor and stick it in your yard!

The canon would come next, It's an item I am debating on adding to my pirate themed bathroom.

And speaking of the pirate themed bathroom this skull toilet brush is going to eventually be a part of it. Unfortunately it's almost always out of stock, but I'll get it one of these days!

The dragon table is another oddity item on my WL. I'm keeping it on there for tracking purposes, much like the canon, because I plan on having my living room be Disney's haunted mansion themed and it's a good center piece. Can't get it until I move here in a few years since it's so large, but I often use my WL as a sort of checklist for future household items and this is most certainty on it.

Then there's the extraordinarily expensive stick which is a film item. A buddy in my Uni's TV crew has one, they're absolutely fantastic to work with and something I like to keep my eyes on.

Then we have the Gargoyle speaker set the knight helmet you can use as a trashcan, the horse rope (though I am starting to think I can just use the giant training leash my dog had since there is literally no difference between this lunge line and her old leash, but I do have to check length. Getting kicked in the head is not high on my list of priorities.) And then there's the oddity that is my Pet wishlist. It is mostly made up of extremely expensive small fluffy blankets and odd fish-tank items.

Personally I'd buy a Feiyu G4 Gimbal and a refurbished Hero4 Silver

Total cost is around $408 compared to around $600 ($599.98 = $699.98 - $100)

The extra $200 buys you the latest camera with voice control that's water resistant without a case and a gimbal that turns on the camera and the gimbal at the same time (which is very nice compared to the Feiyu option.)

I have a Hero4 Silver and Feiyu G4 and I'm pretty happy with it.

For lagless SD recording on a budget, I recommend either the Dazzle DVC-100 or the Diamond VC500. I have and use both, and they're pretty great.

I have this steadicam for my G7 and it works pretty well. As for lenses, I think you would love the 25mm f1.7 by Panasonic. I got it recently and it performs phenomenally! Here are some shots from it!

As long as you've got reasonable amounts of light (normal overhead room lights have been sufficient) the Canon Vixia R series captures good HD video, have a mic input, and you can regularly find them in the $200 or less range. We use R700s at a small community TV station I work with and they've done very well for interview type setups. I've seen Canon refurb models go for around $170. You can get an XLR to 3.5mm cable and use a handheld mic like a Shure SM-58 or you can go with a shotgun mic. Be aware that the way most of those XLR to 3.5mm cables are wired can cause some weird problems, the simple fix is to turn off the right channel when you pull the video into your editing app.

The current "ENG" rig the station uses is a Canon Vixia R700 mounted to an inexpensive "scorpion" frame (like this) with an inexpensive shotgun mic in the cold-shoe. I've tried a Takstar Shotgun Mic and it works well for the price. You can spend a bit more and get one of the R0DE mics instead.
If you already have a Zoom H4n you can take the line out of it and plug it into the mic in on the camera, although you might need an attenuation cable to match levels.

We mount the whole thing (handle and all) on a tripod when we need stable shots. I set this up as something I could send out with people with no experience and it's worked well. With only a few lessons in framing, being aware of lighting, and how to plug in the cables we've gotten some good results.

This is another great option to start with too. It's what I started with:
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Video-Stabilizer-Support-System/dp/B005MRXPE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485757721&sr=8-1&keywords=chest+stabilizer

I still use the stock off that on my rig!

Biggest pluses are that it's got a quick release. If your tripod has a manfrotto mount, there's nothing stopping you from putting the arc swiss plate on the bottom of a cheap manfrotto plate. My tip is to make sure everything you use has the same plates. No one should ever be waiting around for you to be screwing stuff in with a coin.

When I can't be fucked or want an ultra light rig, I have a manfrotto plate on my GH4 (no cage) and I use the chest stock off that cheap Kodak, then a rod mount:

http://www.smallrig.com/SMALLRIG-15mm-Rail-Support-System-Baseplate-1841.html

and a matching Manfrotto clamp:

http://www.smallrig.com/SMALLRIG-Manfrotto-Dovetail-Clamp-1716.html

It doesn't twist when you brace it against you, it's rock solid stable and ultra light. Protip: brace against your shoulder, your chest will move as you breathe haha

Is the TAKSTAR SGC-598 a good mic for vlogging? I'm on a budget and would rather not spend $100+ on a shotgun mic for my DSLR. This one has pretty good reviews on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/SGC-598-Photography-Interview-Microphone-Interface/dp/B00HE9G3UQ

I could not agree more with you. When its comes to glide cams and steady cams your going to want to spend upwards of $100. Its pricey but can make a huge difference. I own this one currently and have had a great experience using it: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DRGQETA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would actually recommend this model Dazzle. It's the one I use, and I had none of the audio nightmares you hear about in terms of getting it to work in OBS. Just go and make sure the audio is outputting through it (It says something like "Line- Dazzle" in OBS) and you should be good to go.

THIS ONE is 140 but I have it and can affirm that it's pretty darn good for the price.

the big thing I notice/felt was just a lot of unstable camera shots.

Im not sure what you are shooting with, but smart phones seem to be the way to go these days with how advanced the cameras are getting (especially with a VLOG style format),

I know you are in the UK and I linked the Amazon US store, but you should check out the DJI smartphone Gimbal

side note, im in no way affiliated with this company, but I have used it a ton of times their app has a facial recognition and tracking feature, so if you hold it in your hand, not only will it stabilize your video for you, it will also track your face as you do your vlogging, or if you just set it on a flat surface and want to do solo presenting.

I ordered a EACHINE LCD5802D. Monitor, Diversity receiver, DVR all in one for $130. I don't typically fly by it, it's just there for spectators and to record, but I like it.

It's my experience that spectators are way more comfortable watching a screen than putting something on their face.

amazon link

It's only ONE event? The photography and cinema rig is good, but too expensive, especially when you're not sure about the future. Go with this polaroid one. I absolutely love mine, and it's incredible for run-and-gun.

This is in your price range but from the looks of it looks extremely shitty. If you want some pretty well made stuff, the good people over at Jag35 have rigs/rods/follow focuses that don't break the bank like redrock or zacuto. But you do get what you pay for after all.

I believe You will need something like a shockmount so you can attach it to the mic as I am not sure if the AT2020 comes with any screw holes like a stand or anything.

I would also reccomend avoiding the neewer it's horribly designed and while cheap probably isn't worth the hassle. I bought it and it not only horrible to control but also damaged my desk very easily. I am currently saving up for the Heil PL-2T which I hear is very good, doesn't make noise and is easily mounted without damage of desks http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000SZVZ74/podcastinghandbook-20

For the lapel mic, wireless would be pretty expensive. Wired lapel mics are much cheaper. Something light this Pro JK mic would work just fine for an interview setup. An extension cable to go with can be really easily found for cheap on Amazon.

If you like doing more action stuff like this, I'd highly recommend a gimbal. It'll make it look really professional.

You can buy AIO (all in one) cameras that have integrated transmitters, and those will do you for getting started. I'm using this on a micro build and it's got great penetration (for an AIO) and plenty of channels:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MEGFK3S/

I can't vouch for quality as I haven't used one before, but here's a monitor that checks a lot of the right boxes. I'd start with a monitor and fly with that until you are comfortable and then switch to goggles. Goggles are where it's at.

https://www.amazon.com/EACHINE-LCD5802D-Monitor-Receiver-Battery/dp/B01ANOOJ3Q/

So unfortunately, the mic did not work for me.

Just a quick heads up, I did not buy the MIC that you directly linked as I was too excited to wait 3 weeks for it to arrive from China.

Instead, I ended up buying THIS one instead. It looked like the exact same one you linked on eBay.

One interesting point though: when I hooked the MIC up to my hub, USB Devices under PowerEventManager definitely recognized it. Here is a link to that image.

Does USB Devices list your MIC as "AK5371"?

Thanks for the suggestion. I am currently check lav mics and has heard good things about JK MIC-J 044 mic as well.

What was with the camera doing barrel rolls?

EDIT: oh, steering wheel. I got one of these which I strap to my remote control car. It works a treat. Could definitely work in a car too, just fasten the handle and let the head keep things stable on rough roads.

Most places I go are paved, but are frequently a fair drive away. I made this timelapse a few years back of one place we go. 400 kilometre/4+ hour round trip. Wasn't anything particularly unusual, I just wanted to see how much footage fitted on my dashcam at the time and thought it would be a cool clip:

https://youtu.be/s7l3mrunKiE

A few guys do the out west stuff, which is over 1000 kilometres of driving round trip. I think the furthest I've driven was 5600 kilometres round trip, but that was over the course of a week doing a heap of little jobs on the way. Brisbane -> Cooktown with deviations to most major cities on the way for those familiar with Australia.

And some unrelated silliness from way back in the day when I was but a naughty young apprentice that happened to be in my YouTube list near the timelapse:

https://youtu.be/Mit66aaYW_c

Hard to master but one of the best cheap ones

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DRGQETA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

At that budget you are looking at something like this. Can't even get a cell phone gimbal for that price. If you are willing to practice you can get great footage with these.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P92DLQO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_az6GDbT60YN5J

Can anyone tell me anything about this budget "steadycam"?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DRGQETA?qid=1407133751&sr=8-1&vs=1

Obviously I wouldn't expect it to perform like a high priced one, but does anyone have any experience with it? My friend recently bought it and I'm thinking about it too,

Not really in the way you describe, not without custom building the hardware/software anyway. You could consider using a cellular phone connection though, perhaps by securing an actual android handset in place of the camera/gimbal on a phantom product (payload may be too much with both), then controlling the phone with another Android phone. Since you would be sacrificing the camera/gimbal you can easily install a lightweight 3rd party FPV camera/transmitter for accurate 5.8ghz remote viewing, like I did on my Phantom 2.

Edit: "easily" is a relative term in regards to FPV install, the gear is cheap and not too complicated with some googling. Also, if you attempt this, turn of the wifi on both phones during flight, and if the cellular data connection with the remote phone interferes with the Phantom's controls you will be SOL... SO TEST, TEST, TEST before risking your hardware!

Edit 2: 2 android phones +

http://store.dji.com/product/phantom-2?set_country=us&gclid=CjwKEAiA8JbEBRCz2szzhqrx7H8SJAC6FjXXXU6LsxSeAjUrCkfZrJrs9sOi8D6MmTTA6asJW5s0KRoCIkzw_wcB

https://www.amazon.com/Eachine-700TVL-Degree-Camera-Transmission/dp/B014KG3JG6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485206390&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=fpv%2Bcamera&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/EACHINE-LCD5802D-Monitor-Receiver-Battery/dp/B01ANOOJ3Q/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1485206434&sr=8-19-spons&keywords=5.8ghz+receiver&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/TARION-Monitor-Bracket-Support-Transmitter/dp/B00MFDV6K8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1485206485&sr=8-2&keywords=phantom+2+lcd+mount

Ok, so could I, for example, buy my interviewee this mic, have it sent to them, they plug it into their computer, and we can have the interview recorded somehow? So I can speak into my Yeti mic & they can speak into the mic I sent them? And would I use Cleanfeed to record the interview? Thanks for the input!

1: It was all natural light, I would have used some reflectors had I owned some so we improvised the best we could.

2: I used a D5100 for the first bit but it crapped out so we went to a D7100 to finish with the same settings. I used both a spider steady as well as a rig available on Amazon here.

Bro , I got you. 9.00ish USD on prime.
But hear me out https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B072Q2GH99/ref=oh_aui_i_sh_in_o1_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought this mic as I needed something small, that wasn't a aux mic to reduce/remove audio static problem I had when aux-ed. Prior to this I was using a blue yeti (like everyone else). They're pretty dang sturdy! I was kind pissed I had spent a 100.00 on my yeti about a month earlier. This little mic really go neck to neck with the yeti!
Really rediculous considering it's size and esspecially cost (even when I bought mine at 15.00/each). Ive been so so very pleased with this mic :) only cons I have with these are that the usb sticks really far out so it'd be easy to break, and the cable could definitely stand to be longer. I use a extension no problem though :)
We even have 2 set up on a hub on a single extention. They work together great :)!

> zhiyun crane

Looks like it has some solid reviews. Have you used the glidecam (link below?
Has some really solid reviews, a bit cheaper than the crane and others. Came across t=the glidecame on a FullTimeFilmMaker.com ad. The filmer uses one and the footage looks solid.

glidecam link:https://www.amazon.com/Glidecam-HD-2000-Hand-Held-Stabilizer/dp/B0020LB0MO/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1495766381&sr=1-2&keywords=glidecam+hd+2000?

Thanks!
Here's a pic of the setup.

The gimbal is the feiyu G4
https://www.amazon.com/3-Axis-Handheld-Gimbal-Cameras-Similar/dp/B00T32A0K6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469987103&sr=8-1&keywords=feiyu+g4

Two clamps. One to hold the gimbal and one to latch onto the headlight mount
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/546371-REG/Manfrotto_035_035_Super_Clamp_without.html

And the articulating arm between the two clamps:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/616251-REG/Pearstone_9041660_9041670_8_3_21_1cm_Articulating.html

There's a ton of different brands of articulating arms but the cheaper ones usually don't hold.

I'll post a better pic of the setup when I get back to my motorcycle.

A lot of people seem to recommend this one:

Feiyu Tech Phone Gimbal

by Feiyutech

Link: https://amzn.com/B00T32A0K6

It's $215 right now, so it's cheaper than some, but the footage I've seen with it seems to be pretty smooth.

I've found that Monopods work great for shots that need more movement than a locked down tripod.

For sub-$100 shoulder rigs, I've found that this guy works okay: http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Video-Stabilizer-Support-System/dp/B005MRXPE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459352331&sr=8-1&keywords=shoulder+rig+polaroid

Here's a handheld gimbal for $200 USD, just a little bit cheaper:

https://amzn.com/B00T32A0K6

I use this one, works perfectly fine

Regarding the follow focus? It's solid. It came with this rig and, so far, I'm really happy with the overall quality.

Are sub $100 stabilizers worth it? Just got into filming and picked up some Canon FD lenses so there is no image stabilization. I am new so I do not want to spend $400 on this but I still want quality. Are these any good?

SUB $100

SUTEFOTO S-40 $57.99

S-60 $71.99

think something like this will do?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004S494WO?psc=1

I see it has the wind jammer which I'm assuming would be good for outdoor filming when there's wind.

Check out affordable steady cam gimbal attachments for your phone.

I've seen a few recently and am pretty impressed seeing them on phones and cameras in action.

While I am familiar with the expensive stuff, I'd expect that it would be possible to find some MIC (Made In China) phone gimbals.

https://www.amazon.com/DJI-Mobile-Handheld-Stabilized-Gimbal/dp/B01KUX9VT2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34oRFXwM9EU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFt__-4GqIg



After spending $53 bucks for a double double of (only) 10 year old Laphroaig 2 nights ago, I am already jealous.

If your camera doesn't have a mic input, I'd recommend looking at lav mics. Using any sort of camera mounted shotgun mic will be a hassle if you need a separate recorder for it. If you do want it camera mounted, you will need a portable recorder, but your phone should work for that.

​

As far as the mic, I'm not too familiar with lavs, but for shotguns there is a Takstar mic that has way better audio than a mic that price should (I've seen comparisons with it to the Rode Videomic Pro, and it held its own). It's not going to give perfect audio, but you won't be spending $300+ on gear and needing extra equipment for it either.

Yeah even phone gimbals are sorta pricey. You could do something more manual like one of these things, but idk how good they are..https://www.amazon.com/OFFICIAL-ROXANT-camera-stabilizer-Smartphone/dp/B00K67QUQK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?creativeASIN=B00K67QUQK&imprToken=0ACX333CKnxY8C.fdNW0hw&slotNum=8&ie=UTF8&linkCode=w61&tag=omnideals-20&linkId=cd93d57a1847057ccd1c1cacf48e5b02

> TL;DR: I need an adapter that takes 1.5 and 2.5 mm and merges them into 3.5 mm audio jack

I'm not familiar with the connection you're describing. Maybe if you give the model number of the microphone or even post a pic, somebody can help. If that doesn't work out (and it's hard to know if it'll work with your camera even after you get the adaptor) you could get a third party mic instead - I've read that this one is decent despite the low price and you can get a furry windscreen for a few dollars more.

> lens adapter from a Canon CL 8-120 mm 1:1.4-2.1 video lens to a Nikon D7200

The lens is designed for a small sensor video camera. Between the flange focal distance and the smaller intended image circle, it's won't be compatible even if you could physically connect the lens to your camera.

i use the eachine 7 inch screen ,its like 90 bucks

https://www.amazon.com/EACHINE-LCD5802D-Monitor-800x480-Receiver/dp/B01ANOOJ3Q

i got it cheaper than 139 but its a good screen.

I don't think those are really stabilizers. I believe they are just handles so you can do low shots more easily. You might want to lay out a concrete budget for yourself and help others suggest. I've heard some okay reviews about the $75 [Neewer 24" stabilizer] (https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Handheld-Stabilizer-Release-Cameras/dp/B00WUCRVD0) which is just a knockoff of the much more expensive Glidecams. I don't do video though, so take my advice with a grain of salt. You could also try searching through /r/Videography.

I got this cheap one and works great. Here is a review of a few cheaper alternatives to Rode.

This guy is prettying good for the price. I like it.
SGC-598 Photography Interview Shotgun MIC Microphone for Nikon Canon DSLR Camera (Need 3.5mm Interface) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HE9G3UQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_8zPOybPRSVTD2

I researched this one a bit and it seemed like a good option. Have not actually used it or purchased one though so I don't have a personal report

https://www.amazon.com/OFFICIAL-ROXANT-camera-stabilizer-Smartphone/dp/B00K67QUQK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1465577418&sr=8-2&keywords=iphone+steadycam

This is what I lavalier I bought, but I ordered from .ca . I'll probably shorten the cord so it isnt excess bulk on the headset and 3d print a bracket so it clips nicely to the headset out of the way.

Not sure where you read that but I had something like this years ago and it worked fine.

This one is cheap and I love it: http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Stabilizer-Support-Cameras-Camcorders/dp/B005MRXPE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422069972&sr=8-1&keywords=shoulder+rig+polaroid

This is your best bet: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016JTHIM8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_nvpBCbCFSS293

It's a couple tubes and handles, that part really can't go wrong. The follow focus may or may not be adequate, but it's not going to be of use in any case if you're using MFT lenses which have too far of a focus ring throw to use a follow focus. I've gone even cheaper and use one of these: http://amzn.com/B005UF3G2Y I've added a shoulder weight setup and run it with only one handle with my other hand operating the lens. Works fine. What you really may be looking for is a Glidecam or Flycam. They take some learning and a bit of time to balance, but the results with practice are excellent.

edit: Note that the matte box with that rig I linked to is absolutely useless, but the rods and fittings do their job. The follow focus is of surprising quality, but again useless if using MFT lenses. I believe they sell the rig without it.

Glidecam HD2000 vs Zhiyun Crane

As of this posting, Glidecam has more reviews, a higher average review, and is cheaper than the Zhiyun Crane on Amazon. But do you want to play with weights and balance the Glidecam? Do you want the look of what a Glidecam can produce or a Zhiyun?

Edit: words

You could look into a quality shotgun mic with a wind cat to reduce the echo. --Rode VideoMic with Fuzzy Windjammer Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004S494WO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Uh54CbKE59R0M--
Or a wireless lav mic would be your best bet, but the price difference can be drastic. --Sennheiser ew 112 P G4 Camera Lavalier Set, Bodypack Transmitter, ME 2 Lav Omni Mic, A: 516-558 MHz - Bundle with 4 AA NiMH 2900mAh Batteries/Charger, SKB iSeries Waterproof Case, AT Clothing Clip https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L3JD74W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pk54CbY7G8JJT--
Just be sure your cam has a 3.5mm jack or XLR input jack with a 3.5mm step-down converter. You can find cheaper wireless lavs, but I've found that you get what you pay for with audio equipment.

My recommendation would be to throw down a bit of money and get a good usb capture card, some RCA Splitters, extra cables and a TV or Monitor that has inputs. Total cost should be around $50 on Amazon before the TV/Monitor. The analog signal only degrades slightly (can barely tell on a CRT or stream) and is super easy to set up. There are cheaper options out there but I wouldn't recommend using them - a few of the USB capture cards I have seen that are cheaper than the GV-USB2 don't have drives that work passed windows 7, and even on Win7 they are super janky to get working. The GV-USB2 has a bit of lag when going into OBS so I wouldn't recommend playing straight off of it, hence the splitters. An alternative capture card would be a Dazzle, but I have heard multiple people having issues with audio on those, your mileage may vary regardless of which option you go for.

There are also more expensive options such as getting an internal card but you will probably be stuck with having to get one for digital or one for analog at an increased price.

dazzle capture card it's not hd but it works and is cheap. amarec to preview it. setup live inside of it. use 32bit version of obs and it should work. only 32bit version works for some reason. hope this helps

I use Dazzel. It's sold for under fifty bucks and it comes with a disk and no regular payments. It works great but as you now it's a real time down load - takes the same about of time to down load as it took to record it. I'm just keeping my search active for something that works faster. I guess we're not there yet. Thank you for your response. https://www.amazon.com/Dazzle-DVD-Recorder-VHS-Converter/dp/B00EAS14KI/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2L3DOPQ8SKWJO&keywords=dazzle+video+capture+device&qid=1558966242&s=gateway&sprefix=Dazzel+video+%2Caps%2C179&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

aitesco USB Microphone Lavalier Clip-on Omnidirectional Condenser Microphone for Computer Laptop PC Macbook, Perfect for Interviews, Skype, Audio Video Youtube Recording, MSN, Skypee, Podcast https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072Q2GH99/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_CgPIAbS4WCPB1

Rode Microphones are constantly cheap with good quality on amazon.

Here is one under 200$

If you do get the T3i, try going with an on-board mic. The Rode VideoMic and VideoMic Pro are pretty common with DSLR's.

I use one of those cheap Newer stabilizers from AMZN. It gets the job done but its definitely lacking in the build quality dept.

https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Handheld-Stabilizer-Release-Cameras/dp/B00WUCRVD0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503503900&sr=8-1&keywords=neewer+stabilizer

I swear you should buy this mic. It's a perfect companion to the H1N.

https://www.amazon.com/JK-MIC-J-044-Microphone-Recording/dp/B012Z698ZE/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=1F2OUWSCSFVHT&keywords=micj+044&qid=1550722969&s=gateway&sprefix=mic+j&sr=8-3

This one? it's advertised as a dvd recorder? is it good?
l
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EAS14KI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DsDqxbC6NT8SK

Well from connecting to a capture device. You won't need much to be able to record. Since the recording is handled by the device. Most laptops would do the trick. I recorded of a pretty low end one not to long ago.

Also This and This are also options. Keep in mind to record on the PS3 you have to use either composite or component cables. The Roxio is Component only and these other two are composite only.

Alrighty, after reading some other comments this might even be a bit big BUT, check it out. I shoot with this little thing ALL the time and it is fantastic for VERY tight spaces.

http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Stabilizer-Support-Cameras-Camcorders/dp/B005MRXPE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393866500&sr=8-1&keywords=polaroid+chest+stabilizer

It's cheap, surprisingly built well for the price, very sturdy, and is extremely mobile.

On top of that, I tend to use a Zacuto Z Finder with this little rig but that is probably overdoing it for what you are looking for. Check out the pic below. This is what it looks like rigged up on a 5D3.

http://instagram.com/p/kiNSBCpUgm/

Heil PL-2T

It's like the Rode PSA-1 only slightly longer and you can route your cable internally so that it looks cleaner and you don't have to tie it to the outside. It also has several different mounting options you can purchase if a C-clamp desk mount doesn't work for your setup.

IMHO I'd stay away from cheap follow focus/matte boxes and go with just the shoulder system.

I just got the PR-1, quality seems pretty decent. There's also Neewer and Polaroid rigs that are very affordable.

DJI Osmo Mobile

Anker PowerCore 26800

This alongside a decent case+screen protector should save our little autist from buying a replacement phone within the first week.


^^^^sidenote: ^^^^make ^^^^him ^^^^buy ^^^^some ^^^^new ^^^^clothes ^^^^OMEGALUL

Buy the DJI Osmo mobile. It's a really good stabilizer for the S8.

I use a knockoff glidecam. It greatly improves your footage. I use this one in particular: https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Handheld-Stabilizer-Release-Cameras/dp/B00WUCRVD0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469570333&sr=8-1&keywords=neewer+stabilizer

This is the rig that I like to use personally

http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B005UF3G2Y
combine that with this
http://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0036NMQ7S
and your hands are free to adjust focus, settings, etc. while you shoot.

For the hassle of DIY, I'd say you would be better off buying this. Comes with a matte box and follow focus.

Something like this with a shock mount would work.

Apart from the auto-off on the Rode, what's the difference with say a model like this? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004S494WO/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B004S494WO&pd_rd_wg=00e0n&pd_rd_r=CSVFWQ8VGWHVEX7W91R5&pd_rd_w=RqE0b

The OP5 + DJI Osmo Bundle would save me 10€ if I buy the Osmo Mobile from Amazon instead of dji.com.

https://store.dji.com/de/product/osmo-mobile
https://www.amazon.de/DJI-CP-ZM-000449-Osmo-Mobile-Schwarz/dp/B01KUX9VT2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1502895711&sr=8-2&keywords=dji+osmo+mobile

Seems like a shitty deal to me.

If you primarily need it for vacation video, I would suggest the stabilized 4k DJI Osmo. This will get you much better looking footage than any handheld camera would, with the tradeoff being that it's probably not all that good for still pictures.

Here's the official promo video for the DJI Osmo.

Here is an example of the footage you can get.

^(Post contains affiliate links)

Yes, this model https://www.amazon.com/DJI-Handheld-Fully-Stabilized-Camera/dp/B016JTHIM8

Nice weather I see! Hey...get one of these handheld stabilizers for your action cam rig. Roxant Pro

You can always just get a Feiyu Tech G4 3 axis gimbal.

https://www.amazon.com/3-Axis-Handheld-Gimbal-Cameras-Similar/dp/B00T32A0K6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466001722&sr=8-1&keywords=feiyu+tech+g4

Also with the extension stick attachment

https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Carbon-Extension-Converter-Handheld/dp/B00S0TBVKG/ref=pd_bxgy_421_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=PD33SP9BTG3WVHEV40RQ

yeah the at2005 will pick up much less noise, can be usb to start then upgrade to xlr later, then transition to a diff xlr mic later

These are the two most common "good" boom arms. I had the rode and its not bad

• https://www.amazon.com/RODE-Swivel-Mount-Studio-Microphone/dp/B001D7UYBO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519785517&sr=8-1&keywords=rode+boom+arm
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Heil-Sound-PL-2T-Overhead-Broadcast/dp/B000SZVZ74/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519785524&sr=8-1&keywords=heil+boom+arm
  
  I also like this "traditional" one as its smaller profile
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/23860-Microphone-Desk-Arm-Black/dp/B00AXMM0L2
  
  The one i use is crazy expensive BUT is the most unobtrusive thing i have found.
  
  
• https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1194415-REG/o_c_white_ulp_mb_proboom_ultima_lp_adjustable.html?sts=pi
  
  
  My set up PIC here: https://i.imgur.com/lejBdOP.jpg

Here it is. Though I do have my eye on an autopilot in the near future. I would recommend that one if you can swing it.

He's talking about something like this: https://smile.amazon.com/Smooth-Handheld-Stabilizer-Smartphone-Black/dp/B07BHCC3BV/

Split the clips up into smaller clips.

Here's a few tools that I use to eliminate the need for Warp:

• Glidecam HD2000 I own this one and recommend it.
  
• DJI Ronin-M 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal
  
• Neewer Carbon Fiber 24" for budget users, and is mostly just an HD2000 knockoff. I would spray paint the colors black if you plan on using it for events where you don't want to grab too much attention away from the subjects.
  
• Glide Gear Geranos VII 3 Axis Gyro for when you DO want all the attention on you.
  
  
  Otherwise you will see very little to no difference between the i5 and i7 during Warp's Analyze. When do you start seeing a difference? Most likely when there is 24 cores and 128GB's of RAM. And you may gain... what... a few minutes or so? It's the nature of Warp's analyze. Adobe is aware of it and has yet to address it.

Worth noting for anyone looking into this, you can get a DJI Osmo which is essentially an all in one version of what's showcased above for a few hundred less than a stabilizer+gopro will run you.

I'm not affiliated with DigitalRev at all, but I find his reviews to be very informative and he has helped me make a lot of purchasing decisions. Their review can be found here.

Also some [more] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Obyx LEh8TA) footage examples here. (Each word is a different link)

https://www.amazon.com/DJI-Handheld-Fully-Stabilized-Camera/dp/B016JTHIM8 reckful uses this its pretty cool

There are many out there, but if that's a small production, this might just do fine : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HE9G3UQ and its deadcat https://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Microphone-Windscreen-TAKSTAR-SGC-598/dp/B07B4SCTJT/r