Best products from r/videography

/u/RunGCaleb - It really depends on your budget.

I have the GH4 - and I love it - but, if budget permits, for live broadcast plus short film work, I would get a [$3495 4K JVC LS300 Super 35mm pro camcorder] (http://amzn.to/1P3V5Zj) with live streaming and SDI out.

The LS300's maximum resolution is 4096x2160p true 4K (like the GH4) - plus it can use its power zoom rocker and variable scan sensor mapping for lossless 1080p digital zoom with prime lenses (as seen [here] (https://youtu.be/0Eq4_hPzQPc)).

It also records to 3840x2160 Ultra High Definition (UHD), 2048x1080 DCI 2K and 1920x1080p HD (up to 60fps).

In addition, it has a flat LOG profile, which increases its dynamic range.

This is an 8-bit camera, but it has 4:2:2 color subsampling and will stand up to grading pretty well.

Here's a UHD file shot with cine gamma (before the J LOG release):

• [“Honmonji Temple” in GY-LS300 by moribun] (https://vimeo.com/139214323) (downloadable if you're a Vimeo Plus or Pro member [if you're not, you can sign up [here] (http://vimeo.com/pro/new?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=prosubscribe-cj-vimeo-bizlander-300x250-20130424&utm_campaign=7696)])
  
  Here's a nice J-LOG piece from Dan Chung at newssshooter.com:
  
  
• [JVC GY-LS300 4K J-Log Vision] (https://vimeo.com/138523082) (not downloadable)
  
  And here's a very quick J-LOG camera shelf test at 4096x2160 Cinema 4K resolution from Gert Tetzner at avmediafactory:
  
  
• [JVC GY-LS300 Firmware 2.0 J-log ungraded] (https://vimeo.com/140984524) (downloadable for Vimeo Plus and Pro)
  
  A few more examples of the image quality this camera can produce:
  
  
• [GY-LS300 UHD 4K w/ Canon 70-200 and 85mm lenses] (https://youtu.be/QYCdxMrvAoA)
  
  
• [EVS’s test footage for the JVC GY-LS300 4K super 35 Cinema camera] (https://youtu.be/S47dceBcuJI)
  
  ...and 1080p on Vimeo:
  
  
• [JVC GY-LS300 Camera Test] (http://vimeo.com/122736335)
  
  
• [Breathing in New Life] (http://vimeo.com/120445118)
  
  A very nice overview from Zacuto:
  
  
• [First Look at JVC's GY-LS300] (http://vimeo.com/121192570)
  
  A couple of useful reviews from Rick Young's Movie Machine:
  
  
• [One of a kind - shooting with the JVC GY-LS300] (http://vimeo.com/133929950)
  
  
• [Shooting with the JVC GY-LS300 & Micro Four Thirds Lenses] (http://vimeo.com/136918105)
  
  And two recent reviews of the new features introduced with firmware update v2.0:
  
  
• [Fred Blurton Reviews JVC’s GY-LS300 Firmware Upgrades Version 2.0 by Fred Blurton Productions] (https://vimeo.com/142907613)
  
  
• [JVC LS300 Firmware v2 by Philip Johnston] (https://vimeo.com/150304533)
  
  I have shot with this camera - it is an easy-to-use, very high quality Super 35mm camcorder and might be a better choice for videography than a still/video compromise camera.
  
  The LS300 is probably the closest thing on the market to a combined 4K broadcast and cinema camera.
  
  All of that said, below about $3500, the GH4 is probably your best bet. For what you're trying to do, I would get the [$1697.99 GH4 with the YAGH audio/video interface with XLR inputs and SDI out and a free Audio Technica AT8024 shotgun mic] (http://adorama.evyy.net/c/60286/51926/1036?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.adorama.com%2FIPCDMCGH4AAT.html), a [$115 external power pod] (http://amzn.to/1OEhI2V) for the YAGH plus the [$99.95 V-LOG upgrade] (http://adorama.evyy.net/c/60286/51926/1036?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.adorama.com%2FIPCVL.html).
  
  For less than $2000, this setup will give you a camera with 4K broadcast-quality SDI out, unlimited recording time, XLR inputs and compatibility with power zoom lenses.
  
  Here is a local TV news promo shot in part with the GH4:
  
  
• [GH4 V-LOG L News Promo by Erik Naso] (https://vimeo.com/139742565) (the news team in front of the wall grid was shot with the GH4)
  
  Here is the image quality this camera can produce:
  
  Narrative
  
  
• [A Fine Dining Experience] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/112172645)
  
  
• [Siren] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/110753225)
  
  
• [Storm] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/109145141)
  
  
• [Writer's Block] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/113104551)
  
  
• [Out of Time] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/112461203)
  
  Travel
  
  
• [Union Glacier] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/107231188)
  
  
• [Postcard from Phang Na] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/99523009)
  
  Documentary
  
  
• [Seize the Day] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/102924266)
  
  Music Video
  
  
• [Dawn Golden – Last Train (Music Video) by Neighborhood Brains] (https://vimeo.com/115768220)
  
  
• [Netanela - Shir Ha'Yona Music Video by Izhar Ashdot] (https://vimeo.com/109293623)
  
  
• [Venomous2000 - To Emcee (produced by Matnez, cuts DJ Keal) {Official Music Video} by François Bouko] (https://vimeo.com/113916814)
  
  
• [Little Tybee - "Don't Quit Your Day Job" at Doppler Studios] (http://player.vimeo.com/video/98759306)
  
  Slow Motion
  
  
• [Paris SlowMotion (Vintage Lenses)] (https://vimeo.com/100955334)
  
  
• [Matsoe Matsoe - Summer Time (Panasonic GH4 96 fps Glidecam 4000)] (https://vimeo.com/100034235)
  
  
• [Kaydara (Anamorphic GH4)] (https://vimeo.com/97096167)
  
  
• [FREEDOM - an action sports shortclip about it by Lake Alliance] (https://vimeo.com/123234932)
  
  
• [Middles 23 Dec 2014 by Lars Petersen - Surf's up!] (https://vimeo.com/115707363) (shot with the GH4 and a Canon 400mm lens)
  
  
• [Gun Sails Imagefilm 2016 by Valentin Böckler] (https://vimeo.com/147930266)
  
  It's a pretty good still camera too: https://www.flickr.com/groups/gh4/pool/
  
  And with V-Log, you will get extended dynamic range from the camera. GH4 shooters are already getting great results with it:
  
  
• [spin, drift.] (https://vimeo.com/134425559)
  
  
• [Barbwire (Allen Stone) - Jaylon Ashaun Cover by CreativeHouse Motion] (https://vimeo.com/143438519)
  
  
• [KALLY REY [suga] by Sabb Adams] (https://vimeo.com/143771215)
  
  
• [Los Profetas - Elévame [Official Video] by LCP Films Network] (https://vimeo.com/141144200)
  
  
• [Sunrise / Sunset] (https://vimeo.com/124684805)
  
  
• [Panasonic GH4 V-log L Tokyo Yokohama] (https://vimeo.com/141998476)
  
  In addition, V-Log gives the GH4 much better low light performance than with the
  original firmware. It can now get clean results up to ISO 5000, as seen here:
  
  
• [Band Promo // GH4 // V-Log by Play Reel Productions] (https://vimeo.com/146034870) (crowd shots at ISO 5000)
  
  
• [GH4 V-Log Low light test by Iban Corominas] (https://vimeo.com/146841470)
  
  
• [GH4 // V-Log // Low light test 5000 iso by Play Reel Productions] (https://vimeo.com/142443785)
  
  There are many more examples in the [GH4K group] (https://vimeo.com/groups/gh4k) I moderate over on Vimeo.
  
  Either of these cameras will do a good job - but the camcorder, with its built-in XLRs, built-in SDI out and integrated battery solution will make your life a little easier - both in the studio and in the field.
  
  Hope this is helpful and good luck!
  
  
  
  
  
  

As far as specs go, the only difference is in price and in variable aperture. Variable aperture is something I work with on a daily basis but would be a great thing to not have to deal with. IMO, just an annoyance. Light will likely not come into play because you already can just switch to your 55 f/1.8 for low-light. Other than that, I think it comes down to focal length. Do you want to have the 18-30 range or will you not miss it because you already usually shoot at 55?

I would not consider it "easy" to get good slider shots but also not hard. It largely depends on your slider and experience with the slider. Gentle hand + smooth slider = great shots. I think that it would be better to invest in good lenses, a good tripod, good mics, and good lights before getting a slider as you can make an equally good video without a slider.

Yes, here are some cheaper options. However, I should note that the mic I recommended has a "+20dB" setting that can allow you to turn down the pre-amps in your camera or recorder and get better, cleaner audio. Most other mics do not have the feature. The mic I recommended has a bunch of younger brothers. The rode videomic that I have. Great mic, no boost setting, a bit bigger than I would like. The rode videomic go, no battery required mic, pretty cheap. Some people say it is no better than just for scratch audio and barely better than on-board mics, I can't speak to the claims. I'm not trying to scare you away from it, just letting you know what is out there. The rode videomic micro, a super small mic, more intended for small cameras or smartphones, I don't know how good the audio quality is. Outside of the Rode brand family, there is also the Shure LensHopper that is often said to rival the videomic pro. It comes in two different versions, one with a built-in audio recorder, and one without.

Let me know what else I can help with!

Hi /u/businesstwinkie - I started out with a T2i and now shoot with the GH4 and a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (BMPCC). I have never shot with the Blackmagic Cinema Camera, so my advice is based on my experience with the BMPCC.

I love both cameras, but which camera you buy depends on what you want to do with it.

If you shoot narrative, corporate videos, commercials or music videos in controlled settings, want the widest possible dynamic range and want to be able to maximize your artistic choices in post-production - you should seriously consider one of the Blackmagic cameras. In terms of value for money, the [$495 (on sale until 8/31) Pocket Cinema Camera] (http://www.adorama.com/BMCCP.html?KBID=66297) is the best deal out there right now.

During production with the Pocket Cinema Camera, you will adjust shutter angles instead of shutter speeds. Still photographers talk shutter speeds, cinematographers talk shutter angle.

With the BMPCC, you will also be free of the mirror, which adds unnecessary weight, bulk and complexity - and is not something you have to deal with on a cinema camera.

Plus, post production with 12-bit 4:4:4 CinemaDNG RAW is pretty good training for working with 12-bit ArriRAW or RED RAW - much better than trying to work with 8-bit 4:2:0 h.264, which pretty much turns to mush if you try to grade it or lift the shadows.

This camera can produce images that look like this:

NARRATIVE: http://vimeo.com/89563847

CORPORATE: http://vimeo.com/88080785

COMMERCIALS:

http://vimeo.com/95962309

http://vimeo.com/81148562

MUSIC VIDEO: http://vimeo.com/88103618

There are many more examples on the Pocket Cinema Camera group I moderate over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/pocketcamera/

All of that said, if you shoot run and gun verite, docs, weddings, news, home movies, still photos - or anything else that requires fast setups - a Blackmagic camera may not be the best option.

Although, the [$1697.99 (as of this post) GH4] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I9GYG8O/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00I9GYG8O&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) is more expensive, I love this camera for anything that requires a fast setup. The tools that Panasonic has provided with this machine are terrific for just pulling the camera out of the bag, turning it on and getting a high quality 4K shot.

In addition to 4K, its fast & accurate video autofocus, 1080/96p slow motion and power zoom lens compatibility make this camera a joy to shoot with.

Here is what this camera can do:

SLOW MOTION/ANAMORPHIC: http://vimeo.com/97096167

CORPORATE: http://vimeo.com/99689267

COMMERCIAL: http://vimeo.com/100539875

You can find many more examples on the GH4K group I moderate over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/gh4k

Yes, you'll learn a whole more about grading, shutter angles and bare bones shooting with a Blackmagic camera - but you'll have a much easier time on the set with the Panasonic.

Bottom line for me: I have a BMPCC and several Panasonic GH cameras, but unless I really need 10-bit video for grading, the BMPCC sits on the shelf while I take one of the Panasonics pretty much everywhere I go.

At the end of the day, it depends on what you want - the camera that is easiest to use - or the camera that gives you the widest dynamic range and the greatest flexibility in the editing suite.

Hope this is helpful!

Bill

For under $1000, I would say go with a mirrorless camera instead of an actual camcorder. They're made for photos, but Panasonic has done a fantastic job with their cameras in this price range and they shoot really high quality video. The advantage with these is they're light and portable, plus you can change your lenses either using a zoom lens or a prime lens, and there's room to increase your video quality and sharpness in the future somewhat with better lenses, whereas with a camcorder you get what you get and there's no upgrading it.

To answer your question, yes, anything you buy now will be digital, typically the consumer cards save everything on an SD card. As far as the versatility to get a vintage look and still do short films, you can do a lot with post-processing as long as your camera takes good quality video. By that I mean look into color grading.

A good camera at this price range is the Panasonic G85. This camera shoots at 4k resolution (3840x2160) at 30 frames per second, and can do HD video at 60 frames per second. It also has fairly good image stabilization, plus you can always film 60fps and slow the footage down for more cinematic shots. Another great feature is that it's weather sealed, so you can use it outside in less than ideal situations without completely destroying the camera.
This camera is my top choice for under $1000. If you want to see a good review of this camera, check out this one my DSLR Video Shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xv2OWv6pWVM

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.

I've worked at a theater for a number of years, and still do occasionally.

I wouldn't go with the A6300. Theater lighting is generally pretty bright so you don't need a good low light camera. Additionally, you want something with longer battery life if you filming long plays. I think you'll be happier with a GH5 or a GH4.

For years, I've been using the the GH4 with this metabones speedbooster and the Canon 24-105 for stage plays. I usually throw a gopro up in the rafters for my wideshot. I actually was able to get away with one camera shoots for awhile now as long as I operated it safely, but lately I've been using the GH5 with the 24-105 as my A-Cam and the GH4 with the 12-35 as my B-Cam.

The 24-105 is an absolute joy to use when filming plays. It's par-focal which is incredibly handy, and you don't really need something faster than f/4 with stage lighting.

As far as audio, I have two cheap condensor mics like these mounted above the stage with cables running into the booth. When I come in to record, I plug in a tascam recorder like this one.

I wouldn't get the NTG-2. It's only useful if you can get it really close to your subjects. If you want a shotgun mic I would really reccomend getting the MKE 600

The theater I have a client has numerous fresnels laying all over the place, so I have ample lighting if needed. I usually just use whatever is installed currently.

This Tripod has been my #1 choice for a long time now, and has filmed many plays. I prefer it to ones that cost 4 times as much. I upgraded the fluid head to a Manfrotto 502 which is a huge improvement.

Hope this helps, feel free to message me about anything in particular.

Hi /u/thegeekist - welcome back! The AC90 is a great camera, but time has passed it by.

In this price class, you may want to consider the new [$2250 Sony PXW-X70] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NPAJH8I/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NPAJH8I&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) (a [little less from 6th Ave Express via eBay] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=321551232221&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg)).

The X70 has a great 12x zoom, a relatively large 1" sensor, a professional 10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC codec (much better than the AC90's 8-bit 4:2:0 AVCHD), built in pro XLR mic inputs, a built-in ND filter plus HD-SDI out in addition to HDMI.

Since the codec is so new, you will need to download Sony Catalyst Browse (download free [here] (http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/images/products/catalyst/downloadnow.png)) to transcode it to something your NLE can use.

Here is what this camera can do:



http://vimeo.com/104434534



And here's a nice hands-on review from Philip Johnston, the HD Warrior:



http://vimeo.com/107308927



Hope this is helpful, and good luck with your decision!

I’m gonna go against the grain here and say that there are plenty of cameras you could’ve gotten that are better for video than the t7i. Not to say that you shouldn’t have bought it, but I will say that you should’ve done your homework. Don’t be spontaneous with your purchases. I did the same thing as you and bought a cheap camera, because I just wanted anything to get myself started.

Here’s a list of cameras I would buy before buying a t7i:

Panasonic G85 - $700

Panasonic G7 w/kit lens - <$500

Sony A6300 - <$800

Used Panasonic Gh4 - $600? Maybe

If you could save a little, I’d go for the GH5 or the BMPCC 4K or the XT-1, or maybe a used Sony.

There’s so many options out there. I’m not trying to get you down or anything. I just think you can do better for the money. You can probably get great footage from the rebel. It is true that you have to have a good eye for film. But it doesn’t hurt to have some nice machines to help along the way. Good luck, friend.

Edit: I like what one of the people in the comments said. Go shoot your videos. It’s only a waste if you don’t use it.

I know it's been stereotypical to jerk off to the Panasonic G7, but after using it for two years as both a dedicated video and photo camera I've became extremely comfortable using it and can vouch for its superiority. This is the first camera I recommend to family and friends, and at $500 nothing can compare to it.

I'd recommend with the spare cash picking up the 25mm f1.7, its fabulous for the price and produces some amazing results.

Heres my website if you want to check out what I've done with the camera.

Congratulations on purchasing the GH5, it's a great camera for the price and will help you learn a lot.

I'd like to forewarn you... MKBHD shoots his videos in 8K on a RED cinema camera. No GH5 will ever be able to match that resolution or image quality. But... YouTube compression in mind? You can get pretty damn close.

Before you start buying lenses, make your decision about which system to adopt (EF vs. M43) carefully. There's a saying around here that goes something like "a camera is temporary, but glass is for life" meaning that investing in lenses should be done so carefully because you will have them for a long time.

I'm not sure what your budget is, but for a hobbyist/beginner, staying on the micro four-thirds side will be cheaper.

A great lens that's cheap, has a sharp image, and can produce a very similar result to what MKBHD makes is the Panasonic 25mm f1.7. Fast prime, basically M43's "nifty fifty" (keeping in mind the 2X crop factor).

That lens will get it done. To produce a product similar to MKBHD, you are better off spending your money on good audio equipment and good lighting. Your camera with that lens should be enough to get you there with those things in mind.