Kodak Zi8 Video

[Jones14]

Hello, I just made my introduction to TPF and I'm looking for some advice from the pros. I've got a Kodak Zi8 that I've been using to take some video's while flying a Cessna 150. The problems I'm facing are too much vibration and prop blur.

The vibration is probably due to the suction mount that I'm using, the camera is just too tall and wobbles during high RPM. As you can see in the picture below I've tried to use a rubber band to keep it more stable. If you can think of some other ways to jury rig it please comment, I'll try it out next time. The camera has the standard 1/4" so suggestions on different mounts are also welcomed. Mostly every non-porous material in an older airplane vibrates pretty badly especially the windscreen, the best place to mount is on the dash I've found.

The camera will shoot in 720p, 720p/60fps, or 1080p. I've tried using the different modes and the prop blur is still usually there. In the video below however, it doesn't show up? The only reasoning I came up with was a lower amount of light reflecting off the prop.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugROONqnhWw[/ame]

Here I shot in 720p/60fps and mounted to the dash as shown in the picture (link at bottom of page). As you can see just after lift off it goes nuts, almost gives you a headache.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzvU7mVU4zk[/ame]

I have also had the image stabilization turned on for all of my videos. I didn't really think until now to try filming with it disabled.

I know it's just a cheapo "HD" camera but I thought you guys might have some suggestions. I'm also not completely opposed to purchasing a different camera, suggestions <$300 welcomed. Thanks!

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/m...g?t=1277172288

 

[ifi]

I have also had the image stabilization turned on for all of my videos. I didn't really think until now to try filming with it disabled.

It has electronic image stabilization system, if you get something with optical image stabilization it will work better.

 

[Jones14]

I have also had the image stabilization turned on for all of my videos. I didn't really think until now to try filming with it disabled.

It has electronic image stabilization system, if you get something with optical image stabilization it will work better.

It will work better as far as the vibration is concerned?

 

[ifi]

2.Electronic Image Stabilization: It's not much, but at least Kodak is making an effort to reduce shakes and jitters, the biggest problem with this type of camcorder.

Unfortunately, hand shakes and jitters remain a problem, even with the electronic image stabilization. While it does mitigate some of the shakes and blurs, it simply cannot catch them all, or even most of them, the way optical image stabilization would. Kodak has avoided optical image stabilization because it would add both heft to the body of the camcorder and increase the price, so pocket camcorders require a trade off from consumers. You get affordability and portability, at the cost of stability.

Kodak Zi8 - Unbiased camcorder reviews, prices, and advice

 

[Jones14]

So something along the lines of the Sony HDR-CX150 would suit me better? Or any other suggestions? $450 isn't that bad and Christmas isn't that far away.

 

[ifi]

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-585-ModoSteady-Camcorder-Stabilizer/dp/B00103BRMQ"]Amazon.com: Manfrotto 585 ModoSteady 3-in-1 Camera/Camcorder Stabilizer and Support System: Camera & Photo[/ame]

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002R20X9M/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_2?ie=UTF8&cloe_id=eff2f683-03be-4f51-9ea6-92384211064e&attrMsgId=LPWidget-A1&pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00103BRMQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1CZ779XCSQHY7NYMSJ97"]Amazon.com: Opteka X-GRIP Professional Camera / Camcorder Action Stabilizing Handle with Hot-shoe for Flash or Video…[/ame]

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EF3DXW/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_3?ie=UTF8&cloe_id=eff2f683-03be-4f51-9ea6-92384211064e&attrMsgId=LPWidget-A1&pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00103BRMQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1CZ779XCSQHY7NYMSJ97"]Amazon.com: Tiffen Steadicam Merlin: Camera & Photo[/ame]

 

[ZekesDad]

I've just bought the Zi8 after using a Flip; Got it because of the external mike.

The video (on a tirpod) is very blurred or hazy. I did a video outside and it was great.
I'm using lighting, do you think its just not enough?

I love the sound quaility but can't use the video because of the haziness.

Thanks for any help.

 

[Antonio Bunt]

What kind of video you're making? Sometimes the subject goes together with the kind of camera one is using. I have a Zi8 and I love it but I wouldn't use it for all my projects.
There's a new frimware by Kodak:
KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera Firmware - MACINTOSH Operating Systems
Maybe it'll get you some better looking images though I haven't really figured out the improvements.