12Mar The Novo – (Re-Housed GoPro Hero3)
This is pretty cool! View Factor Studios, in collaboration with Radiant Images, has developed and engineered a camera called The Novo!
The Novo is a re-housed GoPro Hero3 that is even smaller in size and offer much more flexibility and customization for cinematic filmmaking uses.
The video below breaks down all the details of this camera, highlighting a feature that I wish was already on the GoPro Hero3, which is an iris locking option.
The Novo camera setup is a bit of an overkill for those folks looking to helmet cam and traditional action cam video. But for filmmakers who are looking for more controllable options with a micro sized camera like the GoPro Hero3, The Novo looks to answer that need.
Along with the option to mount full size lens, I love the iris lock option that they developed into this camera! Hopefully, in the near future, GoPro can develop some firmware upgrades that could allow for options like The Nova provides.
Until we can see these custom options on the GoPro Hero3, it seems the camera is available for rental?!
Check out the Radiant Images website for more details and rental information for this camera!
27Jan DSLR Face
There’s a few faces many of you may be familiar with in the DSLR filmmaking world. Two of the most common are “The Viewfinder Angry Face” and the “Preview Face”. Well, for my “The Viewfinder Angry Face” is common while shooting video at work.
Other than looking like the angry filmmaker, squinting during the long shoot days would typically give me a headache as well. Awhile back I decided to experiment with using an eye patch to see if it’d help with my LCD viewfinder shooting.
Though it looks a little ridiculous, the eye patch actually worked great in the bright sunlight! I was able to keep both eyes open while shooting and I was able to hit my focus easier without the strain of my other eye squinting.
The eye patch was a bit rigid and the elastic strap was hard to manage when adjusting it with one free hand. The concept did work though! I feel like a more comfortable option like a simple bandana folded over one eye would be just a effect and serve a dual purpose to absorb sweat on a hot shooting day.
Another (more practical) is to wear a hoody and pull the hood down over your face as you shoot. This method worked the best and since the weather is so cold this time of year you’ll probably be wearing a jacket or hoody anyway.
The camera setup shown in this video:
Canon 5D MarkII
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L
Tiffen 77MM Variable ND Fliter
LCDVF Viewfinder w/ Blue Star Oval Small Eye Cushion
Rode VideoMic
Mounted on a Redrock Micro Shoulder rig
For my personal video and film work, I’m still using the same equipment I’ve been using for the past few years.
Some of the equipment shown here:
Canon T2i (w/ Magic Lantern Firmware)
Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC
Modified DIY Viewfinder
P&C DSLR Pistol Grip Handgrip
DIY Camera Mic Windmuff
External Audio Zoom H1 Mic
More Details of this episode:
This episode was shot entirely on the iPhone 5
FilMic Pro App used for studio footage, synced with audio from the Zoom H1 Mic.
B-Roll was shot using the iPhone’s standard video camera
Edited in Premiere Pro CS6
02Dec Reflex Camera Rig – Shoulder Stabilizer
I came across this Kickstarter project last week. The Reflex Shoulder Rig is a camera stabilizer shoulder rig that features some unique features. Specifically, the twist-tightening quick grips and the single quick-release adjustment controls.
After contacting the creators of this rig, they invited me over to take a look at their DSLR camera rig. While there, I also had a chance to try it out myself. (video below)
Check out the Kickstarter Campaign for more info:
Kickstarter Campaign
Here’s some more test footage using the Reflex camera rig.
Check out the Kickstarter Campaign for more info:
Kickstarter Campaign
More about Reflex Fabrication:
www.reflexfab.com
Gear used in this episode:
Camera: Canon T2i
Lens: Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II
Rig mounted Camera: GoPro Hero 2
Mic: Zoom H1
07Nov DIY Shoulder Rig Counter-Weights
I receive a lot of feedback on my original PVC Shoulder Stabilizer rig tutorial asking about the counter weight.
The counter-weight setup that I use on these homemade dslr rigs is simply to attach a velcro strap ankle weight!
Watch the shoulder Rig Build Tutorial here:
Be sure to tune in for the LIVE Hangout
with Dave Dugdale this Thursday @ 9pm EST !!
Leave a comment with any questions that you’d like me to ask him, if you’re not able to join the LIVE stream!
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Equipment used/mentioned in this episode:
30Oct Mic Audio Storage Bins – Quick Tip
I wanted to share this quick tip for storing and transporting your audio (or video) gear. These ‘Tool Shop’ brand storage cases work perfectly for my Zoom H1 and it’s components and my Zoom H4N.
Though these boxes aren’t large enough to carry XLR cables but for me these boxes are the perfect size for my the audio recorders and their components.
If I need to record audio, all I do is grab my audio bin and I know everything I need is inside. (Batteries, connections, wind muffs and shock mount) Also, currently these bins are on sale at Menard’s hardware store for only $4.00 in store, $6.00 online.
These cases are currently available for $3.99 at Harbor Freight!
Click HERE to go to the Harbor Freight Website
(Thanks youtuber: FotoShopped for finding this!)
Here’s the link to the Menard’s website:
Menard’s Hardware
Unfortunately, the bins aren’t deep enough for my GoPro camera and gear (which is why I bought a 3rd one). But I’m sure I’ll find a good use for the extra bin. The bins dimensions are 13.39 x 7.87 x 2.17 inches
My H1 Case contains the following: Neon Drawer liner, Zoom H1 Audio Recorder, FuzzyHead Wind Muff, Foam Wind Screen, Shock Mount, Audio Technica Lav Mic, Vivatar pocket tripod, Neoprene Camera Pouch Clip, Batteries, Misc. 2.5mm adapters and cords.
My H4N Case contains the following: Neon Drawer liner, Zoom H4N Recorder, Handle, Power Adapter, USB cord, Wind muff, extra batteries.
The dual latches off extra security from accidental opening. The handles feature a rubber grip for secure handling as well.
These bins are not water proof and don’t offer a airtight seal, but for the price they have worked out great. I know with larger cases there’s a tendency to load up with too many extras most of which just get piled inside. These sleek cases have just enough room for these small recorders and their components.
If you’re looking for a larger version – I’ve seen this bin setup to carry a GoPro and all of its components:
This episode:
Camera: Canon T2i
Lens: Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di-II LD Aspherical [IF]
Mic: Audio-Technica ATR-35S
Edited in Vegas Movie Studio HD 11
Windows 7 64bit
24Oct Behind the Scenes with Lindsay Stomp
I recently came across some behind the scenes of a video on Lindsey Stirling‘s channel where she shows off how she created the visuals and effects in here video.
Lindsey works with Devin Graham for most of her shoots and I’ve posted before about his minimalist approach to capturing some great visuals using mostly camera, wide angle lens and a Glidecam HD – 2000.
With some lights and water sprayers, the results are pretty amazing!
Obviously it helps to have great on screen talent and music to go along with it, but I love the minimalist approach to capturing these great scenes!
Devin’s simple Glidecam HD – 2000 setup allows him to create sweeping cinematic camera moves. Filming in unique locations and shooting during the ‘golden hour‘ will also improve your production value!
I hope seeing some of these behind the scenes will help give you some ideas for planning out your next shoot! It’s great to see artists like this share the tips and tricks they use to create their stuff.
Here’s the final video:
More information about Devin Graham’s gear available here!
