Going to be making dslr vids and need some help

[joshua_]

Hello everyone,


We are going to be making some dslr videos for a work web site.


I'm looking for a good way to start learning how to go about all of that. Maybe a book recommendation or if any of yall have any advice.


I'm also trying to figure out what I need to do about software.


The videos will be firearm and firearm training. I would imagine there will be some video where the firearms are being used and then some where there is discussion of topics or training points.


I'm looking for any pointers, suggestions, and reading suggestions.


Thanks

 

[brunerww]

Hi joshua - welcome to the world of DSLR video! If you only read one book, read the $9.39 (on Kindle) "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck". If you read two, add the $34.99 (on Kindle) "Digital Filmmaking Handbook"

Depending on your budget, I would get the $750 Panasonic G6 below $1000 (available on June 21st)

Above $1000, I would get the $1298 (body-only) Panasonic GH3.

Here is a behind-the-scenes video of the GH3 on-set shooting a promotional video for a firearms club in Austin, TX (all footage after 1:45 shot with the G6 - please watch at 1080p):

​

Unlike most DSLRs, Panasonic DSLM cameras have no clip length limit (other DSLRs and Sony DSLTs are limited to 12, 20 or 30 minutes of continuous recording). Panasonic video autofocus is lightning fast in video mode (something only the Panasonics and Sonys can do), either of these cameras can shoot 60 frames per second for slow motion - and the GH3 has a headphone jack (the only DSL type camera below $2500 with this feature).

For software, it will depend on whether your hardware is Mac or Windows compatible. For Macs, Final Cut Pro is the standard.

For Windows, there are several good choices, which I would be glad to help with if I had a little better understanding of budget and your distribution channel (theatrical projection? DVD? file playback on computer? YouTube?).


Hope this is helpful!

Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution