Best products from r/Filmmakers
We found 526 comments on r/Filmmakers discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 2,218 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Panasonic Lumix G Series DMC-G6KK Mirrorless Digital Camera with 14-42mm II Lens Kit (Black)
- Compact Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) camera with 14-42mm lens, 16MP Digital Live MOS Sensor
- 3-Inch Touch LCD, Full HD Video
- One Touch Picture Sharing, Wi-Fi, NFC Near Field Communication, Full Auto or Manual Video Controls with Mic Jack
Features:
2. PANASONIC LUMIX GH4 Body 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixels, 3 Inch Touch LCD, DMC-GH4KBODY (USA Black)
Professional photo performance with exceptional moiré suppressionOperating temperature:0 degree to 40 degree (32 degree F to 104 degree F); 4K 24p cinematic video (4096x2160), plus 4K 3840x2160 30p/24pHigh speed 49 area auto focusing in photo or video, perfect for hybrid photographyDurable magnesi...
3. Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Digital Camera, with Lumix G VARIO 14-42mm Mega O.I.S. Lens, 16 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 3-Inch LCD, DMC-G7KK (Black)
- Professional photo and video: Performance: 16 megapixel micro four thirds sensor with no low pass filter to confidently capture sharp images with a high dynamic range and artifact free performance; Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11b/g/n, 2412 MHz, 2462 MHz (1 11 ch), Wi Fi / WPA / WPA2, Infrastructure mode
- 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with 3 unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes extracts individual high resolution Photos from 4K ultra HD video filmed at 30 frames per second to capture split second moments
- Intuitive Controls: Easily control aperture and shutter settings with the front and rear dials while making White balance and ISO adjustments on the fly; Assign favorite settings to any of the six function buttons (six on body, five on menu)
- High Resolution Viewfinder and LCD Display: High resolution (2,360K dot) OLED live view finder and rear touch Enabled 3 inch tilt/swivel LCD display (1,040 dot) are clear even in bright sunlight. Diagonal Angle of View: 75°(W)29°(T)
- Connectivity and Ports: 3.5 millimeter external mic port, 2.5 millimeter remote port, USB 2.0 and micro HDMI Type D; Compatible with newer BUS Class UHS I/UHS II SDXC/SDHC SD cards capable of storing high resolution 4K videos
Features:
4. Ravelli AVTP Professional 65mm Video Camera Tripod with Fluid Drag Head
- Professional 3-Segment Interlocking Crutch Type Legs
- Supports Video Cameras/SLRs up to 27LBS
- Dual Handled Head with Continuous Drag Fluid Movement for both Pan and Tilt Axis
- Universal 65mm Mounting Bowl
- Maximum Operating Height: 54.5"
Features:
5. Rode NTG2 Multi-Powered Condenser Shotgun Microphone,Black
- Directional Shotgun Condenser Microphone with Battery/Phantom Power Option
- Windscreen
- Zip Pouch
- St Mount
Features:
6. Hosa MHE-125 3.5 mm TRS to 3.5 mm TRS Headphone Extension Cable, 25 Feet
- Nickel-plated plugs for rugged durability and efficient signal transfer
- Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors for enhanced signal clarity
- OFC spiral shields for effective EMI and RFI rejection and flexibility
Features:
7. Zoom H4N Handy Portable Digital Recorder - 2009 Version
- Built-in X/Y stereo mics record at either 90° or 120°
- Four channel simultaneous recording using built-in and external mics
- Digitally controlled, high-quality mic preamp for improved audio quality
- Large 1.9-Inch LCD screen and improved user interface for easy operation
- 24bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording for pristine recording
Features:
8. Set Lighting Technician's Handbook: Film Lighting Equipment, Practice, and Electrical Distribution
- Focal Press
Features:
9. Audio-Technica ATR-6550 Video Camera Cardioid/Supercardioid Condenser Shotgun Microphone
Crisp & intelligible pickup—far away or up closeTwo range settings: "Normal" for close & medium distance; "Tele" for long distance“Tele” range setting to pick up dialogue and sound effects at a distance, while bypassing ambient noiseDesigned especially for use with video cameras3.5 mm connecto...
10. Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount
- Compact microphone designed to improve the audio quality of your videos - only 80 millimeter (3") long and 42gm (1.5 ounce)
- No battery required (powered by camera plug-in power - min 3V)
- Includes Rycote lyre shock mount and deluxe furry windshield
- Please note: for new iphones you need to purchase an adapter as iphone requires a 1/8th Jack
Features:
11. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera with Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera lets you use the most incredible range of Micro Four Thirds lenses. This product does not include a lens; compatible Micro Four Thirds lenses are available separately.High Resolution Display: The extremely high resolution 3.5 LCD allows you to monitor while shooting a...
12. Senal SMH-1000 Professional Field and Studio Monitor Headphones
Closed-Back, Over-Ear Circumaural Design | Rugged Design for Field and Studio Use | Detachable, Twist Locking Cable DesignMidrange Refined to Reduce Ear Fatigue | EQ Curve For Pro Field and Studio Use | Collapsible For Easy StorageSoft Replaceable Ear Cushions | 10' Coiled, 3' Straight Cables Includ...
13. Blackmagic Design Micro Cinema Camera Body Only, with Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount, 13 Stops of Dynamic Range
- Blackmagic Design Micro Cinema Camera (Body Only) - Expansion Cable - LP-E6 Battery - Turret Dust Cap - 12V AC Adapter - Blackmagic Design 1 Year Limited Warranty
- 16mm Image Sensor
- Remote Camera Management: Wireless Control of your camera from a safe distance
- Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount
- Remote Controlled Expansion Port
Features:
14. NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Dimmable Ultra High Power Panel Digital Camera / Camcorder Video Light, LED Light for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Panasonic,SONY, Samsung and Olympus Digital SLR Cameras
- 60-LED lights for optimum illumination and diffuser.
- There are 2 filters included with this item, with Spotlight effect, Diffuse effect, and for reducing the color temperature to 3200K
- The light intensity can be changed to offer professional effects.
- Rotate switch for on/off and brightness adjustment.
- Compatible with NP-F550/F750/F970 Li-ion Battery(not included) Note:6 Pieces 1.5V AA batteries can be used as emergency lighting(Under the same voltage), but the battery life is relatively short, so it is not recommended to use
Features:
15. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3K 16.05 MP Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch OLED - Body Only (Black)
16MP Micro Four Thirds-format CMOS sensorContrast-detection AF system with claimed 0.07-second speedISO 100-12800, extendable to ISO 256006 frames per second continuous shooting1080/60p video with maximum bit rate of 72Mbps3" OLED display with 614,000 dotsBuilt-in 1.7m-dot OLED viewfinder
16. DSLRKIT Build in Aperture Canon EOS EF Lens to Micro 4/3 M4/3 Mount Adapter E-P3 GF2 G3
- AMD AM4 socket: Ready for 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors to maximize connectivity and speed with up to two M.2 Drives, USB 3.2 Gen2 and AMD StoreMI
- Enhanced power solution: Military-grade TUF components, Pro Cool socket and Digi plus VRM for maximum durability
- Comprehensive Cooling: Active PCH heatsink, VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert
- Next-Gen connectivity: Dual PCIe 4.0 m.2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A/Type-C
- Gaming Networking: Exclusive Realtek L8200A Gigabit Ethernet, Intel 2x2 802.11ac Wi-Fi with MU-MIMO support, Bluetooth 5.0, TUF LANGuard and technology
- Please ensure your BIOS is up to date if installing a compatible Ryzen 5000 series CPU. Visit ASUS site search by motherboard model name, click on “Support” tab, Drivers and Tools, then BIOS and Firmware to download the latest BIOS
Features:
17. Adorama Panasonic Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body, 4K Video Recording with Free Panasonic DMW-SFU1-VLOG V-Log L Function Firmware Upgrade Kit
18. Azden volleyball-equipment-accessories, Black (SGM-250)
- High sensitivity, low-noise condenser microphone element.
- Wide frequency response for accurate audio capture. Equipped with low-cut filter switch.
- Supercardioid polar pattern for rejecting side noise
- Dual-Powered - 48V phantom power or (1x) AA battery without sacrificing performance.
- LED battery indicator light
- Handcrafted in Japan with manufacturer 10-year warranty
Features:
19. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens - Fixed (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
- 50mm focal length, Minimum focus distance : 0.45m/17.72 inch
- 80mm equivalent focal length on Canon APS-C cameras
- F1.8 maximum aperture; F22 minimum
- Micromotor-type AF motor without full-time manual focusing
- 52mm filters
- Lens not zoomable
Features:
20. Kastar NP-F570 Battery Replacement for Sony NP-F550 NP-F330 Digital Camera Battery and Sony DCR-SD1000 DCR-SR40 DCR-TRV900 DCR-VX2000 DCR-VX2100 DCR-VX2200 HVR-HD1000 HVR-V1 HVR-Z1 HVR-Z5 HVR-Z7
- Replacement for Sony NP-F570 NP-F550 NP-F330 Battery
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion; Battery Voltage: 7.4V
- Battery Capacity: 2900mAh
- Package Includes: 1-Pack Battery
- Compatible with the original battery and charger
Features:
No problem dude.
So first off I just want to go against your thought on only using an iPhone until you can get a professional camera. I really do think that you need the DSLR step in between the iPhone and the professional camera for many factors. Even though the app that you are using is very impressive, it still cannot match a DSLR. You even said it yourself, the camera sensor is way too small to use in anything but exceptional light. Secondly being able to tell the story not just the angle you have the camera, but in the lens choice is something that is awesome to do. With a single change in a lens you can make someone who is in an ally look like they are claustrophobic and trapped, to someone being alone in a large amount of space. So using lenses are a huge help in telling the story you want and being able to know that before using a professional camera is huge. I also want to point out one of the big and main differences why someone would want a professional cinematic camera. One of the main reasons is to have the capability to shoot in RAW which allows for awesome post production. I've used RAW many times before and it is awesome to adjust almost every aspect of the shot. Here is the thing though, you almost really don't need that unless you are really going to push the camera in post, or if you are doing a movie. Even without RAW a DSLR or mirrorless camera can achieve professional looking video without breaking the bank. Here a great video on professionals comparing 8bit vs 10bit which is essentially the difference between cinema cameras and mirrorless ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AekKwgvS5K0 ). This is a very interesting video and really shows how good mirrorless cameras are, and the small gap between the two. I know it's fun to say that you filmed a whole film on an iPhone. I've also used an iPhone and android phones to film really good looking video, but I knew what it can and can't do because I had used dslr and professional cameras. Without the knowledge I had there would've been wild problems that I couldn't fix in post, and even with all of my knowledge I had to change how I did things to get everything right. It was a great experience, but there is a time and place for everything.
Okay not that is out of the way I'll tackle the audio questions you had. So when I said that you can eliminate background noise while recording it wasn't necessarily in a software, rather in what you are doing while filming. The number one thing that you need to do is get the mic as close to the actor as possible. By doing this it eliminates most factors so you can have more flexibility in post. Secondly it is a good idea to have someone dedicated to being the audio engineer. Having to do both is exhausting and results in lukewarm audio and video. Third you need to get an app or some external device that allows for adjusting the gain. There should be multiple apps that can do this, however I would recommend a pre-amp. Here is a link to a great pre-amp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LBS52YI/ref=psdc_11974581_t3_B007534LFK . It is a great deal for what it is, but it is still pretty pricey if you don't have much money or much income at all. This is a great tool because it will allow for any audio recorder, phone, or camera to accept xlr, quater inch, and normal aux connections and even providing two. You can also adjust the volume it is putting out so you can more easily adjust on the fly. Getting the right levels is essential for getting good audio in post. The next thing you can do is have some portable sound proofing. There are audio blankets that do a great job, but they are $60 for one. Not to say it isn't worth it, but it's a bit much if it's between getting that and a new mic. So instead I recommend getting a moving blanket. It isn't perfect, but you can get a huge amount of them for cheap and they do almost as good as the audio blanket. The way can use this is to cover up whatever is making the noise if you can. If you can't you can make a wall out of the blankets with light stands, or pretty much whatever you can attach them to. This will not only reduce echos from the actor, but it will also greatly reduce the amount of ambient noise that the mic is picking up. Seriously pick up some moving blankets, they are a great tool not just for audio, but you can use them to block out light, and actually move stuff. They are a really awesome tool. So by doing all of this it should reduce the amount of ambient noise that the mic picks up. Also for good shotgun mics, I am not a great resource for this but I do know a few good mics. Here are two that I know are good and that others say good things about. https://www.amazon.com/Professional-Advanced-Broadcast-Microphone-accessories/dp/B00N39J0LU/ref=sr_1_4?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1503160247&sr=1-4&keywords=shotgun+mic https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-6550-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B002GYPS3M/ref=sr_1_5?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1503160247&sr=1-5&keywords=shotgun+mic . If you want to know more there are a large amount of articles on good mics for cheap.
Next I just want to quickly mention that you should invest in some lights. No matter what it is a good idea to have them. Here is a link to a great budget light, https://www.amazon.com/Dimmable-Digital-Camcorder-Panasonic-Samsung/dp/B004TJ6JH6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503160499&sr=8-1&keywords=neewer+light . It isn't the most exiting thing to buy, but it is well worth your money.
For the acting questions, it is hard to put to words what I experience. It's more of an instinct, and is different in every situation . However I know I would not be happy with that answer, so here is a link to an article that I think has some really good points. http://www.masteringfilm.com/tips-for-directing-actors/ . This isn't the guide lines for what you can do, but this is just a starting point for what you can do to direct actors better. There are many articles out there so pick and choose what you want. My only piece of advice that I could find words for is this, make your actors not act. You want them to be the character. So a good way to get this to happen is to have them write a back story for the character, it won't be incorporated in the film, but it will help them shape their decisions on how they act. It is really a great way to have the actor connect with the character. Also just tell the actor what they are doing. Don't be a dick about it, but let them know so they can change it. Don't be vague by saying "do that but happier" because no one really gets that. Instead say something like "Jim while you are saying that line could you have a bit of a smile and have a bit more hop in your step" something like that. That might've not been the best example, but you hopefully get the idea.
Okay I hope that answered all of your questions. Let me know if you have more.
Hey, I'll try and answer as best I can, but others may have better or more accurate descriptions than me.
But as for what makes a camera better? I would say control. The more functions you can control on a camera, the better. This is why DSLR filmmaking is so popular currently, because they have access to functions that many cameras don't have. Focus, Aperture, White Balance, Lens choices, etc. Being able to access all of these gives you more options as a filmmaker, which is what we all want, creative freedom, we all hate when we are limited by technology.
Now many people talk about shooting Film vs Digital, or whether or not you are recording in RAW format for digital. A lot of this has to do with preference vs quality of camera.
So I would say that a camera that is easy to control is the best. Hopefully I mostly answered that, if you want a more specific answer, just let me know and I'll try my best, otherwise hopefully someone else jumps back in here and describes it better.
I would recommend a small light kit, you can spend as much as you want on film lights, but don't feel ashamed to buy a few lights from Lowes or Home Depot. Lighting is a very important piece to making movies. I would also look into getting some reflectors, there are some really cheap ones on Amazon. I have found these to be helpful when shooting outdoors, since lower end lights are almost unnoticeable in the sun.
Here is the one that many early filmmakers ignore, Audio. Grab a nice microphone and get some good sound with your video. The Rode NTG 2 is a pretty good mike. It's cheaper while still getting good sound. The ME 66 is a bit more expensive, but it's a hotter mike and gets better sound. Both are really good options. To go with your mike, if you have a little extra spending money, I would completely advise getting a Blimp. This Rode Blimp is great! If you want to shoot outdoors in the wind at all, this is the best option, otherwise you may have to re-record all the voice over in post.
~
This post is getting a little long here, so I'll throw a summary at the end with a couple more items.
Camera: Get a Camera, Lenses, Case, Tripod.
Lighting: Get a couple Lamps, Reflectors, Filters, Light Stands.
Audio: Get a Microphone, Boom, Blimp, XLR Cable, Recording Device, Headphones.
There is always more, but these would be a good starting point. Not everything I recommended is needed to get started though.
> im not filming full length films but short scenes and sketches.
You've gotten some good advice here, but it sounds like you already have a camera and want to upgrade to something that will give you better image quality and will last for a few years?
If so, here are the two best video capable cameras in your price range (in my view) [Referral Links]:
I own both of these cameras, and both produce awesome video images - but each has its advantages and disadvantages.
If you really want to learn cinematography - and you don't need a still camera, I recommend the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera. It is the least expensive interchangeable lens camera you can buy that records to RAW or 10-bit ProRes with 13+ stops of dynamic range - straight out of the box. Like Pro cinema cameras, it sets the shutter in degrees rather than fractions of a second and has a built-in headphone jack so you can monitor your audio track (only one other interchangeable lens camera below $1000 has a built-in headphone jack - the Panasonic GH3).
With a [$10 cold shoe] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HJFBUCQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HJFBUCQ&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20), a [$24 pistol grip w trigger] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=221603818145&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg), a [$159 LCD viewfinder] (http://www.adorama.com/LCDVFBM.html?KBID=66297), a [$70 external battery adapter] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LPJ1FJ0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LPJ1FJ0&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20), a couple of [$10 batteries] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007Q9PWQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0007Q9PWQ&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) and a [$17.50 dual battery charger] (http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=321347920244&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) [Referral Links] - you'll have the best cinema camera in its class.
Here's what my setup looks like, ready to shoot: https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f3hbYYV_y8o/VHDp77GMxoI/AAAAAAAAJF8/xnHRvNcCm5o/w724-h543-no/P1020575.JPG
Here is what this little powerhouse cinema camera can do:
Narrative
http://vimeo.com/89563847
http://vimeo.com/94798326
http://vimeo.com/101576471
Documentary
http://vimeo.com/83284391
Music Video
http://vimeo.com/88103618
Travel/Low Light
http://vimeo.com/79531723
There are lots more examples in the [Pocket Cinema Camera group] (https://vimeo.com/groups/pocketcamera) I moderate over on Vimeo.
Although it has a steeper learning curve than a consumer camera, and color grading in post is pretty much mandatory - this is absolutely the best filmmakers' camera in this price range.
Second choice:
If you want something that is a little easier to use, the GH3 might be a better choice. With its built-in electronic viewfinder that continues to work while you're shooting video, 1080/60p frame rate for slow motion, up to 72mbps recording and all metal splash resistant body - this is a great video/still camera for the price.
Here is what the GH3 can do:
Narrative
http://vimeo.com/49420579
http://vimeo.com/59543338
Music Video
http://vimeo.com/53834993
http://vimeo.com/96861718
Documentary
http://vimeo.com/66940018
http://vimeo.com/54076272
There are many more examples on Andrew Reid's GH3 channel over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/gh3
And, unlike the BMPCC, it can produce still photography results like these: https://www.flickr.com/groups/gh3/pool/
Hope this is helpful and good luck with your filmmaking career!
Hi /u/rbg003 - I started with a T2i and now own a BMPCC ([$993.93 brand new from BigValue 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=360972404907&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg) [Referral Link]), in addition to several other large sensor, interchangeable lens video cameras - so I have experience with the camera you're coming from, the camera you're looking at and I also have a few ideas about other cameras you might want to consider.
I agree with the other folks you've heard from in this thread, the BMPCC is indeed more challenging to shoot with and edit than a DSLR - but there are also a lot of positives.
This camera has absolutely the best dynamic range below $1000 - and, straight out of the box, its footage holds up to grading a lot better than any other camera in this price class. This means results like this:
Music Video:
http://vimeo.com/88103618
Commercial:
http://vimeo.com/81148562
Narrative:
http://vimeo.com/89563847
Documentary:
http://vimeo.com/83284391
There are many more examples in the Pocket Cinema Camera group I moderate over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/pocketcamera
This is a great camera. If you can deal with its challenges, it will produce amazing images for you.
That said, if you want something easier to use that will give you the best 8-bit images you can get in this price range, you may want to consider the [$998 (as of this post) Panasonic GH3] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0WREM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0WREM&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew-20) [Referral Link].
I own this camera as well - and it would be a significant upgrade over your T2i. It has a headphone jack, records at up to 1080/60p, records continously for hours, has a viewfinder that works while you're shooting video (instead of blanking out), it has an articulated LCD, fast and silent autofocus while you're shooting video, and high bitrate recording up to 72mbps.
Here is what the GH3 can do:
Music Video:
http://vimeo.com/53834993
Narrative:
http://vimeo.com/49420579
Documentary:
http://vimeo.com/66940018
There are many more examples on Andrew Reid's GH3 channel over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/gh3
It's a pretty good still camera too:
https://www.flickr.com/groups/gh3/pool/
https://www.flickr.com/groups/2042242@N25/pool/
Here are the BMPCC and the GH3 side-by-side (flanked by the GH1 and GH2): https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-gVr8wdjjVyU/UpnGGaj0IfI/AAAAAAAAIS0/dHBNsFcCxGs/w815-h543-no/S1030005.JPG
(for me, these cameras are a lot easier to handle with pistol grips).
In my view, the GH3 is the best still/video camera you can buy below $1500.
Hope this is helpful and good luck with your decision!
Bill
I'll let someone with more experience in those matters answer the first 2 questions, but I think I can really help you with the third question.
If you don't yet have a camera, I would recommend getting one and spending a few weeks getting really familiar with the manual controls and the exposure triangle. Start by filming everything in sight (Nature, People, Cars going by on the road, etc.) and also watching tons of tutorials about exposure / framing / editing / color grading / etc. on Youtube before attempting to shoot anything with a narrative. This is just my personal opinion, and I'm sure some people will disagree with me, but I've found that process worked for me to get the basics down rock solid so when I wanted to shoot my first 2 minute no budget short film with a narrative, I had a much better idea about what to do with Audio / Lights / Framing and was able to pull it off much better because I knew what I was capable of with the Camera. This is just my 2 cents, feel free to jump head first into making a short film first if that's what you are set on.
Here are a few good tutorial videos:
Exposure:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8T94sdiNjc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAt4315-uH4
Lighting:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_Sov3xmgwg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqeCHzk2RdA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVIbirzZn0M
Recording Audio:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAb-hV2uBj4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9cP1WHL0Zo
There are plenty of other amazing tutorials on youtube and all over the internet. If you have any questions about filmmaking, chances are there is a detailed youtube video explaining it.
As for the Camera itself, I would highly, HIGHLY recommend the Panasonic G7 Mirrorless camera. You can find it here on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/PANASONIC-Mirrorless-14-42mm-Megapixels-DMC-G7KK/dp/B00X409PQS/
I currently use it as a beater camera to shoot Youtube with, but that doesn't mean it's a bad camera at all. It's actually a really amazing little device. It is an amazingly sharp and versatile little camera that packs way more punch than a camera of its size should be able to. It shoots extremely crisp 4K video at 100Mbps, and the little lens it comes with is amazing for an included kit lens. Even if you don't have a 4K monitor or plan on delivering content in 4K, it still really helps due to the increased bitrate of the files and the increased clarity and sharpness of 4K video, so when you downsize it to 1080p, it can look really, really good.
Here is the pansonic G7 operating at its very best:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf4skunfRv4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cXwpckBMBg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jHsXSV-FCk
I would probably recommend not getting a consumer camcorder like the one you posted, due to its fixed non removable lens and possible lack of critical manual controls, but I've never used that camera so I can't speak more than that. In my opinion it would be better to go for a real DSLR or Mirrorless camera for film making instead of a consumer camcorder. I haven't used any of the Canon DSLR cameras for filmmaking, but I'm sure any highly rated ones on Amazon or BHPhotoVideo are just fine.
I recently picked up almost everything on this list so I can give you an honest opinion and I'm a vfx artist trying to get out there and shoot my own content.
The fisheye....we never use it. We shot a prom and that was the only time we used it, and that was for b-roll because the kids loved it.
Definitely pick up the Sigma 30mm f/1.4. It's such a great lens! I almost use if for everything I do, but it's also good to have a wide angle lens. I currently use one of my buddy's which is a Canon 17mm-85mm.
Nodal Ninja I haven't seen before, but looks great.
Video tripod is good, I use a Manfrotto 502 but it's way more expensive, so this looks like a decent alternative. Also, the quick release plates are awesome. You'll eventually want to pick up tonnes of these. I used 2 yesterday to put on both the bottom of my new slider, as well as the top. I have one on my cage as well.
You can probably do without the Shoulder Rig for now. You may consider using the Kamerar Tank 2 cage with rail system to hook up the Kamerar Follow Focus. I found that once I got my Tank, I just disassembled the shoulder rig and never used it since. The Glidecam is something that I've been considering as my next purchase. Check out my thread asking about the glidecam.
Definitely grab the NTG-2 and possibly a Zoom H4N. The sound quality is fantastic. You need an XLR cable, windshield, boompole, and a shock mount.
Kamerar's Follow Focus is solid. It gets a little cramped using a smaller lens, the follow focus, and a matte box though. You have to tinker with teeth to learn how you need to set it up properly so that the teeth don't slip.
The Matte Box, while nice to look at, hasn't proven it's worth to me. I shoot with the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 and because the lens is so short, the matte box does very little to block out light. I just got the new "donut" in the mail yesterday so maybe that will help, but I wouldn't advise getting it when you can spend that money on something else.
And the backpack is pretty awesome, definitely worth picking up. If you travel to shoots I would recommend the Pelican 1510 to store all your stuff in.
I would also recommend grabbing a couple LED lights and the batteries and charger. These things are a life saver. I'll be picking up a third this week.
I hope this helped you out a bit. Like I said I was in a similar situation to you a couple months ago, but everything's coming together now. If you have any more specific questions about any of this, let me know. Take care.
Well, If filmmaking and video is your goal with these cameras I wouldn't recommend either.
If you're just starting and serious about video production here's a pretty effective starter kit that's just a tad over your $400 budget.
[Camera: Canon Vixia HF R400] (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-VIXIA-R400-Advanced-Camcorder/dp/B00AWZFJ22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395594961&sr=8-1&keywords=canon+vixia+hf+r400)
This is a decent starter camera. It's got a decent range of focal lengths, optical stabilization, microphone input, progressive frame-rates and most of all designed with video in mind. You'll need a SD Card
I noticed the cameras you picked resembles DSLRs but keep in mind that these in particular are not and with fixed lenses which defeats the purpose of having DSLR for video. Trust me, learn how to be effective with a camcorder first! Then, when your skill requires more artistic control you can upgrade.
Audio:
[Microphone:] (http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-6550-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B002GYPS3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395595673&sr=8-1&keywords=shotgun+microphone)
Having clean audio is probably the most important part filmmaking! The key is to get the mic as close to your subject as possible and away from your camera. You'll need a cable. If you need to mount it to your camera use this [bracket.] (http://www.amazon.com/Heavy-Photography-Bracket-Standard-Mounts/dp/B005Z4ROIW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395595189&sr=8-1&keywords=flash+bracket) This bracket will also help keep the camera stabilized when you go handheld.
Keep in mind this won't deliver perfect audio but it will be a MASSIVE improvement to the on board microphone and learning how to record with decent audio in mind is your first step into becoming a pro.
[Lighting:] (http://www.amazon.com/Bayco-SL-300-Clamp-Aluminum-Reflector/dp/B007RKKEHA/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&qid=1395595354&sr=8-17&keywords=can+lights)
Lighting is EXTREMELY important. A couple of these can lights will not only help with your image quality but put in you in the right direction for learning how to properly light your scene. You could start with daylight equivalent CFL bulbs.
[Tripod:] (http://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-60-Inch-Lightweight-Tripod-Bag/dp/B005KP473Q/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1395595413&sr=8-3&keywords=tripod)
You NEED a tripod. This one is cheap and cheerful. Looping the ends of a couple rubber brands around the pan handle and the other end around your finger will help deliver some smoother pans!
Total: $425/£258
Some things to keep in mind:
Best of luck to you!
edit: formatting
There are a few other options I would recommend, but they cost more [Referral Links]:
Panasonic GH3, the G6's "big brother" - this camera adds a headphone jack, an all-metal splashproof body and higher quality, higher bit rate recording up to 72mbps (but loses focus peaking and NFC) - [on sale for <$700 body-only] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0WREM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B009B0WREM&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=battleforthew-20) right now.
Here is what this camera can do:
Narrative
http://vimeo.com/49420579
http://vimeo.com/59543338
Music Video
http://vimeo.com/53834993
http://vimeo.com/96861718
Documentary
http://vimeo.com/66940018
http://vimeo.com/54076272
There are many more examples on Andrew Reid's GH3 channel over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/gh3
And it can produce still photography results like these: https://www.flickr.com/groups/gh3/pool/
Next step up for filmmakers, in my view, would be the [$800 body-only Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (BMPCC)] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CWLSHUK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B00CWLSHUK&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=battleforthew-20).
You would lose the Panasonics' electronic viewfinder and ability to take still photographs - but you would gain the widest dynamic range (13+ stops) and highest recording quality (220 mbps bit rate, 10-bit color for ProRes, higher for RAW) that you can get below $1000.
Like the Panasonic GH3, this camera has a headphone jack. But the battery life is horrible and the LCD screen is dim, so it absolutely requires an external battery and LCD viewfinder to make it usable - but the images are so good, the workarounds are worth it.
Here is what this camera can do:
Narrative
http://vimeo.com/89563847
http://vimeo.com/94798326
http://vimeo.com/101576471
Documentary
http://vimeo.com/83284391
Music Video
http://vimeo.com/88103618
Travel/Low Light
http://vimeo.com/79531723
There are lots more examples in the [Pocket Cinema Camera group] (https://vimeo.com/groups/pocketcamera) I moderate over on Vimeo.
Although the BMPCC has a steeper learning curve than a consumer camera, and color grading in the editing suite is pretty much mandatory - this is absolutely the best filmmakers' camera in this price range.
I own the GH3 and the BMPCC and recommend them both, depending on whether you need to be able to:
Hope this is helpful and best of the holidays!
What else you'll need for your rig
I built something roughly akin to what you see in their product photo, with a couple of modifications due to my attempts to counter-weight a particularly heavy camera kit. You don't necessarily need everything I use (especially if your audio is being boomed off-camera, you have a decent shot lighting setup, etc.), but I tend to be a one-man-band. If that applies to you, counter-weight and balance might be an issue. Here's what I have on my rig:
That's a LOT of crap to have on your rig, but again, it makes a second or third person unnecessary. (Though it's always better to have your audio off-camera and and better lighting present if you can afford it.)
Here is a decent video review that helped me make my buying decision. This is very close to the rig I purchased - GiniRigs seems to regularly revise the specific parts that come with their rigs. I mentioned earlier that I'd gotten a lot of comments on my rig - this is not always a good thing. Listen to the reviewer's commentary at 4:23 on the rig grabbing attention when he was shooting an event - this can be a factor that might have a negative impact on your clients if you're shooting an event rather than a film/other closed subject.
One note about making sure you're actually buying GiniRigs from the right folks: apparently GiniRigs has an impostor who is buying and reselling their gear and pretending to be them. They told me that they were mid-lawsuit about a month or two ago, and that the Facebook Profile as well as http://ginirigs.com/ (which seems to have gone down - maybe they won the lawsuit?) was by the impostor. For "real" products with an actual warranty, buy from GiniRigs-USA.com or, if you're in the UK, GiniRigs.co.uk.
Hope that helps!
HybridCamRev gave a very balanced and objective response. Any choice in your intended price range will come with its own set of pros and cons. Even Hybrid's suggestion of the BMPCC and GH3 have their downsides as he so rightly pointed out.
Before you rule out the DSLRs he mentioned, consider this as further balancing opinions.
Canon T3i/T4i/T5i (and the about to be released T6i and T6s)
You said you want to shoot narrative short films. Therefore, the limitation of shooting continuous video for 12 (or 30 mins) is never likely to be a problem for you. It would be very rare to have a scene shoot for that length of time without a cut. (A documentary interview might be different).
Magic Lantern firmware (free) turns any of the above cameras into a video powerhouse and, among many other expert features, kills the continuous video time restriction.
The mirrors do block the camera's viewfinder but most filmmakers would prefer to use an LCD display or external monitor anyway. The LCD viewfinder is difficult to use in bright sunlight but Magic Lantern will give you exposure zebras and focus peaking to assist you (and a viewfinder, which is relatively cheap these days, will also help).
There are always ways around things. So, cutting to the chase, here's an option for your $1,500:
A Canon T3i with the kit 18-55mm lens will set you back around $550. Look at this deal. You get the camera, three lenses, UV filters and SD cards for $569 (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-EOS-Rebel-T5-Professional/dp/B00J34YO92/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427482664&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=canon+t3i).
So now you've got a camera, some useable lenses and a few other useful bits and bobs. You're practically ready to start shooting and you have about $1,000 left. (Okay, I pushed your budget up just a little bit for the purpose of rounding).
With that, you can buy yourself a Juicedlink preamp and a Rode NTG-2 mic and eliminate the issue of on camera audio (which is terrible).
The Rode NTG-2 is a great shotgun mic and more than adequate for shooting shorts with. It's $266 http://www.amazon.com/Rode-NTG2-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B00093ESSI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427483021&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=rode+ntg-2
A Juicedlink preamp bypasses the (terrible) preamps on your camera and the audio (from the NTG-2) still gets recorded to your SD card at the same time as your video. No synching in post. It also has headphone monitoring so that eliminates another problem that Hybrid mentioned - no on camera audio monitoring. Now you have it.
It's $329 http://www.amazon.com/JuicedLink-Riggy-Assist-Dual-XLR-Preamplifier-Metering/dp/B009YMHVAW/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427483192&amp;sr=8-6&amp;keywords=juicedlink
So, now you have the camera, three lenses, a mic and a top notch preamp and you still have $405 left.
With your remaining $405, you should drop $112 on a Canon 50mm 1.8f lens. It is the best lens this small amount of money can buy. You could practically shoot your entire short on this thing. It is a super fast lens and renders a beautiful image. It's hard to believe what this lens can do and it is often referred to as the "nifty fifty."
Now you have 4 lenses and you still have $293 left out of your $1,500 budget.
With that, you can get yourself a good starter tripod for around $100, leaving you just shy of $200 remaining to get yourself this killer rig for your camera which you can also mount your Juicedlink preamp to: http://www.amazon.com/FILMCITY-Shoulder-FC-02-Camera-Matte/dp/B00J5GT858/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427483755&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=filmcity+rig
Then, download and install Magic Lantern so you have focus peaking and exposure zebras (as well as a ton of other features hiding inside your T3i).
Then, download Technicolor Cinestyle picture profile. It's free and it's a superflat image which gives you 2 extra stops of dynamic range in post.
Look at what you got for $1,500. You're ready to shoot your short film.
Good luck!
Just a few thoughts: If you are a beginner and especially if you are going to be both operating the camera and doing interviews at the same time, don't use a DSLR. You need a regular consumer camcorder, the nicest one you can afford. Be sure it has an external microphone input and a headphone output. So, you will need at least one external microphone, a shotgun and/or a lavalier. The most important thing in your documentary is good sound!
This little Audio Technica lavalier can sound just fine:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-3350-Omnidirectional-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B002HJ9PTO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1382119845&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=audio+technica+lavalier+mic
This inexpensive shotgun also works well:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-6550-Condenser-Shotgun-Microphone/dp/B002GYPS3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1382119920&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=audio+technica+shotgun+mic
A little explanation: A consumer camcorder has pretty good auto focus and usually face recognition, so you won't have to worry about keeping things in focus. Also, you'll have pretty good auto exposure and auto white balance. If you are shooting your first documentary with limited experience and/or a very small crew, you need to think about content and let the camera help you instead of having to think about too many things. It's true a DSLR with a good operator can make your documentary look better, but it won't matter if the story isn't there. If your story is good, the audience will accept a lot of shortcomings, especially in the picture.
When shooting, use the external microphone whenever you can. If you have only one subject, use the lavalier, otherwise use the shotgun. Always monitor the audio in the headphones. I have a friend who accidentally plugged the microphone into the headphone jack and didn't know it until too late!
Good luck!
Unfortunately that's a bit of a tricky question for me because I've never used a fluid head tripod in that price range, so I couldn't tell you for sure what I recommend.
My good friend does have one of these Ravelli fluid head tripods though
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00139W0XM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wYjGzbVN8V3T9
Its just out of your price range at around $150, but I've worked with it and can say that for the money it's a great tripod.
I've also worked with this manfrotto 700rc2 (actually got lucky, someone left a perfectly good one sitting by a dumpster up here in Chicago haha). But it's also served me well, especially with lighter cameras like the g7/t5i, and you can find the head for those for about $80, so may just be interested in buying a head and adapting it to a cheaper tripod.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JLO6V4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_b0jGzb1GJDEHJ
most important for gh2 is lens adaptors / lenses. anything so you don't have to shoot with the extremely limited m4/3 lens selections. I'd go with old school nikon primes. thats the cheapest way to cinema look. I have since invested in more expensive canon zoom lenses, but that is for long term investment, because honestly I don't see m4/3 as having much shelf life in terms of video. I really think panasonic made a mistake with the format. they just got lucky that hackers made the gh2 so awesome. so yea, for more expensive glass, I'd say its smarter to invest in s35 or full frame.
Audio. I use a zoom H4n for my dslr recording. I have an me-66 for shotgun stuff, and sennheiser g2 kits for wireless (with the me-2 mic). i usually just do wireless for most things. does the job great.
Shoulder rig, anything really will do. I recommend you don't be seduced by the zacuto stuff, if only because equally functional rigs can be had for 1/10th the cost. I got a $200 indie systems rig on ebay, then DIY'ed a counter balance for it. works great.
other. may want an on camera light, depending on what you're shooting. there's a light on amazon thats only 34 dollars. its cheap, but again, does the job, for 1/10th the litepanels equivalent. (I have the litepanels micro, purchased for $300, equally cheaply constructed and not nearly as bright.) I would definitely have bought this cheap one if it existed at the time.
I would stress that the quality of the audio is far more important than the quality of the video. Filming on your cell phone but recording audio with a nice audio recorder will do wonders to how people perceive your documentary. It's a little more work synching the audio to the footage but I come from a documentary background and I can't tell you how much good sound helps with any video. Consider purchasing this: http://www.amazon.com/Zoom-Handy-Portable-Digital-Recorder/dp/B001QWBM62
It's relatively simple to learn and use. It's small enough to carry around with one hand or in a bag. Musicians use it predominantly to record their music. Synching audio is pretty simple as well. Just roll your audio then roll your camera. Once both are green, clap your hands and you can sync the audio to the clap in post-production (for interviews of course). When you are filming footage in the field and both of your hands are preoccupied, you can just film yourself stomping your foot to match audio.
If you want something more than cell phone quality for video, check out this flip camera: http://www.amazon.com/Flip-UltraHD-Video-Camera-White/dp/B0040702IE/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1345657139&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=flip+camera
It films at 30 fps as opposed to the other flip which is 60fps. 60 fps will make your video look like a home movie. 30 fps is closer to the standard 24 and makes it look more professional imo. Any HD camera will suffice with 30 or 24 fps recording.
Glad you're trying it out and putting in the effort.
I don't want to sound like I'm encouraging quitting or anything but there's nothing wrong with realizing that something isn't for you. You may need to check out more things/adjust your expectations (of yourself and of the work) before making that decision.
Don't be frustrated just because you don't understand as much as you thought. If you want to and you're dedicated, you can become even more skilled and knowledgeable than anyone on that set. These things take time and effort, of course.
Lighting isn't the easiest thing to grasp and "3-point lighting" is really just a starting point; a general way that you might decide to use to light a scene and which can work any number of ways rather than being one particular setup/ratio. The Set Lighting Technician's Handbook is very informative, if you're really interested, but there's also plenty of guides online and I'd be happy to break down a few basics if you'd like.
For audio, the key thing is that you want the microphone as close to the actors as you can get. Starting with a shotgun mic and a boom pole will probably be your best bet unless you have the cash to splurge on wireless lavs. Rode and Sennheiser are always a good bet, but even a cheaper option like this Audio Technica mic will be way better than anything built into the camera.
For a camera, you'll want something that allows you to change focus/aperture manually. That's really the key to getting dynamic shots, where you can set focus for foreground/mid/background objects to keep things interesting. Depending on your budget, if you can afford a DSLR still camera that is capable of recording HD video you will get a lot more mileage out of it than a cheap handycam. The Panasonic LX7 is a good bet for lots of manual control.
If these are beyond your budget for now, just shoot with whatever you can get your hands on, even the GoPro.